The Steven Stamkos saga has finally reached its conclusion. After countless rumors and reports suggesting Stamkos would entertain offers from the Toronto Maple Leafs, Buffalo Sabres, Detroit Red Wings and others, the star forward has decided to stay in Tampa Bay with the Lightning. The forward is expected to sign an eight-year deal with an average annual value of $8.5 million.
Cancel the Stamkos Sweepstakes, he has decided to return to the Tampa Bay Lightning. #TSN
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) June 29, 2016
Stamkos's deal with TB is expected to come in at eight years, with an AAV of $8.5M.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) June 29, 2016
Stamkos got the long-term deal he was seeking, but it is surprising to see his average cap hit come in under what many predicted for one of the best forwards in the NHL. Stamkos may have elected to take a slightly smaller contract compared to what some of his Canadian suitors were offering due to the fact he’d make more after taxes in Tampa Bay compared to skating with a team north of the border.
This is a huge victory for the Lightning. The push to retain Stamkos seemed like a losing battle as multiple teams shed salaries in order to put themselves in the best position to make a big offer. While no official offers have been made public, the Red Wings were reportedly “very close” to landing Stamkos, but ultimately fell short. It remains to be seen how far off the Red Wings (as well as other teams) were from the finalized deal.
