Day one of free agency in the NHL saw some major names moved, but none were more shocking than Steven Stamkos, who departs the Tampa Bay Lightning after over 15 years with the team.
Now, just one day later, the team have made a statement towards their former captain, as they have given out a four-year, $8 million AAV extension to star defenseman Victor Hedman. If that number sounds familiar, it's because it is the exact deal that Stamkos signed with the Nashville Predators, raising questions over why the departure for a franchise icon was necessary.
It's been said time and time again, but sports is a business and not a family, and while it would be nice to take care of franchise icons, the team felt it was time to move on. It's not clear whether the move on Tuesday was intentional with Hedman, but after the disrespect shown by Julien Brisebois and the organization towards Stamkos, it certainly is very convenient.