Today is a sad, sad day for Lightning fans. After being teased and promised about a resigning of Captain Steven Stamkos, it looks like the Bolts have decided to part ways with the face of the franchise. As we sit back and wonder why the Lightning are okay with losing such a key player in their roster, we’ll look back at some our most favorite memories of Steven Stamkos highlights.
Stamkos is 34 and has spent 16 years with the Tampa Bay Lightning, 10 seasons as our captain. He finished last season with 40 goals, and 41 assists. At the beginning of the 2023 season, Lightning general manager Julien BriseBois had promised Bolts fans they would address and re-sign Stamkos after the 2023-2024 season. A few days ago rumors were spreading around X (formerly Twitter) about the offer to the captain, and many fans found it insulting.
After a lot of a back and forth between the team and Stamkos’ agent, the Lightning offered him a contract of $3million a year for 8 years. Stamkos’ agent was hoping for at least $4.5-$5 million. Even after making $16 million in cap space after trading a star defenseman and another forward, JBB didn’t change his offer to Stamkos, which seemed to be the last straw.
It was announced today at the start of free agency that Stamkos took a deal with the Nashville Predator’s for $8 million for 4 years. Below is a statement from the Captain:
So many stats could be stated to show how Steven Stamkos has contributed to the team and community over the years. Over 500 goals, over 1,000 points, 2 Stanley Cups, Rocket Richard trophy winner, overcoming heartbreak and injuries, donating thousands to the city. It’s no shocker why Stamkos was so loved around Tampa Bay and no doubt he’ll have his own spot in the Lightning Hall of Fame. So be sure to check on your friends who are Lightning fans today, as we are going through a mourning process.
Here Are 7 Steven Stamkos Highlights and Memories To Cherish Forever
Draft Day
June 20, 2008 was a day to remember in Lightning history. Although it wasn’t the first time Stamkos was drafted first overall, as he was also taken first overall by the Sarnia Sting in the OHL draft. But this was the start of everything for Lightning fans, a breath of fresh air when we needed it the most.
OTTAWA, ON – JUNE 20: First overall pick, Steven Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lightning is interviewed during the 2008 NHL Entry Draft at Scotiabank Place on June 20, 2008 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Richard Wolowicz/Getty Images)
