Steven Stamkos Speaks Tampa Bay Wrong Importance Loyalty Respect

Longtime Lightning captain Steven Stamkos signs with Nashville Predators, leaving Tampa Bay fans heartbroken. Preds get experienced leader for deep playoff run.

The NHL world was rocked by a seismic shift on Monday as Steven Stamkos, the longtime captain of the Tampa Bay Lightning, signed a 4-year contract with the Nashville Predators worth $8 million per season. Stamkos had been the heart and soul of the Lightning for years, having been drafted #1 overall by Tampa in the 2008 NHL Draft.

There was a fleeting moment over the weekend when it seemed like Lightning GM Julien BriseBois would find a way to re-sign Stamkos. However, the Lightning ultimately signed forward Jake Guentzel to a 7-year contract, allowing Stamkos to depart.

In an interview on Sportsnet, Stamkos opened up about his departure from Tampa Bay. As a lifelong Lightning fan who witnessed Stamkos' Stanley Cup win in 2021, one of the most memorable moments of my life, it was heartbreaking to hear his comments. Stamkos expressed his love for the city and his desire to retire with the Lightning, but ultimately had to move on.

It has been rumored that the Lightning offered Stamkos an 8-year, $24 million contract, significantly less than the 4-year, $32 million deal he signed with Nashville. Despite his age of 34, Stamkos brings a wealth of experience and success to the Predators, making him a valuable addition to their roster.

The Predators needed a player like Stamkos to boost their chances in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and his signing has been hailed as a brilliant move. While Lightning fans may be upset about losing their former captain, many, including myself, will be cheering for Stamkos and the Predators in their quest for a championship. The mutual interest and excitement surrounding Stamkos' arrival in Nashville make it a natural fit, and fans can expect great things from him in the seasons to come.