The rumblings date back to last off-season, but now it's all but confirmed that long time captain Steven Stamkos will officially depart the Tampa Bay Lightning this summer after a decorated career. The 34-year old played 1,082 games with the Lightning after being drafted No. 1 overall and leading them to two Stanley Cups, and now, he's drawing plenty of interest from the Detroit Red Wings.
According to TSN's Chris Johnston, the Red Wings freeing up money could lead to the veteran signing in free agency, and if he does indeed part ways with Tampa Bay, it's a move that makes sense.
Sure, the Red Wings haven't made the playoffs in eight years now, but with a talented young roster needing a leader, if they could land Stamkos, who had 40 goals and 81 points a season ago, it would be a major splash that puts them into contention in the East.
