Steven Stamkos hits the free agent market.
The first time we considered this possibility was in 2016, before Stamkos signed an eight-year, $68 million contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning two days before July 1. But this time it’s different. Stamkos’ agent, Don Meehan, and Lightning general manager Julien BriseBois both indicated the star forward would “leave July 1” this summer.
How we got here: Before the season, Stamkos publicly expressed frustration with the lack of substantive contract extension discussions with the Lightning. BriseBois said he wanted to wait until the end of the season to see what the Tampa Bay team needed, then would offer Stamkos something within the financial limits necessary to meet those needs.
The contract he offered Stamkos wasn’t enough to re-sign him. It also didn’t increase as the Lightning cleared space under the salary cap and free agency approached. The general manager told Meehan that it is in our organization’s best interest to explore all options in the coming days, whether through trades or entering free agency.
On Sunday, Tampa Bay acquired the trading rights to Jake Guentzel from the Carolina Hurricanes (and subsequently made a contract); Guentzel could become Stamkos’ replacement in the lineup.
Where could Stamkos end up as a free agent? Here’s a look at 16 possibilities, knowing that other candidates are also in the running.
News Source : www.espn.com
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