Steven Stamkos reveals why he chose Lightning over Leafs in 2016
Steven Stamkos, a former Tampa Bay Lightning captain who now calls Nashville home with the Predators, recently opened up in a heartfelt message to his fans in Tampa about his decision not to sign with his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs back in 2016.
Before his recent move to Nashville on a 4-year, $32M deal, Stamkos had spent his entire career with the Tampa Bay Lightning, joining them as the first overall draft pick in 2008. He led the franchise to consecutive Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021.
Tampa, thank you for everything 💙 Not sure words are enough to express my feelings , but I gave it a try . Big thanks to the @PlayersTribune for helping me put this together.
Reflecting on the pivotal moment in 2016 as he was going to hit NHL free agency, Stamkos revealed why he chose to remain with the Lightning, signing an 8-year, $68M deal.
So when I re-signed in 2016, I wanted to finish what we started. And I had this vision of it in my head, right? Like the perfect ending to the story. Leading us through the playoffs in front of our city, lifting the Cup at Amalie, living out childhood dreams. I could see it. But it just wasn't happening like that. There were close calls, and there were injuries.
Stamkos recalled moments of personal adversity, including the loss of a child
during the 2020 Stanley Cup run, and how the support from loved ones and the Lightning community helped him and his family through those difficult times.
I took time to be with my wife after we lost our child. The support we received from our loved ones and the Lightning organization was invaluable. It truly saved us.
Steven Stamkos penned a ‘goodbye' to Lightning fans in The @PlayersTribune 🥹
As he prepares to play in the music city, Stamkos is excited about what's ahead with their additions in Brady Skjei and 2023 Conn Smythe trophy winner Jonathan Marchessault.
At the same time, though, it doesn't mean we can't be excited for the future. Because we really are — I'm fired up just thinking about the start of the season in Smashville. Preds fans, we'll talk soon.
And when the time comes to play down in Tampa, it'll be nice to be home again.
And when the time comes to play down in Tampa, it'll be nice to be home again.
Source: Maple Leafs Daily
Steven Stamkos finally reveals why he turned down signing with the Leafs in 2016
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15 JUILLET | 76 ANSWERS Steven Stamkos reveals why he chose Lightning over Leafs in 2016 What do you think about Steven Stamkos's decision to stay with the Tampa Bay Lightning instead of signing with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2016? | ||
| Admirable | 46 | 60.5 % |
| Surprising | 30 | 39.5 % |
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