It's stunning that Tampa Bay Lightning superstar Steven Stamkos will finally be entering NHL free agency but it's happening.
His agent, Don Meehan, informed Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic that the center will enter NHL free agency on July 1st.
From Stamkos' agent Don Meehan, who tells me regarding his client:
«He will be a free agent on July 1.»
So would appear Stamkos is going to market Monday unless something changes in Tampa's position.
«He will be a free agent on July 1.»
So would appear Stamkos is going to market Monday unless something changes in Tampa's position.
Stamkos just finished his eight-year, $8.5 million contract, but the bolts and his camp have been apart in talks all season.
The offer to Stamkos was an eight-year deal at around $3 million AAV, but Stamkos wanted a million more.
Stamkos had 40 goals and 81 points in 79 games, but the Lightning feel his decline in coming soon.
Lightning GM Julien BriseBois recently spoke about the situation:
As we stand here right now, we haven't been able to reach an agreement yet. I don't know if we will be able to reach an agreement, but we met with Steven's agent again yesterday and both sides are still interested in getting a deal done. We have not been able to agree to terms that are satisfactory for both sides. I think, at this time, it's probably best if I leave my comments to that for the time being.
Stamkos, the Lightning's first overall pick in 2008, has played there for 16 seasons, 10 as captain, winning Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021, and two Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophies.
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