It's official: the Tampa Bay Lightning and Steven Stamkos are splitting after fifteen years, with Stamkos reportedly signing with the Nashville Predators, bittersweet moment.
Stamkos is reportedly signing with the Nashville Predators, after an extremely long 15 year run with the Lightning.
All signs still point to Nashville being the front-runner for Steven Stamkos. Still nothing finalized obviously.
This is a huge change for the Lightning, who Stamkos was with for 15 years. He's gonna leave a void in the team that will be felt not only on the ice, but also in the locker room.
In what may be a huge day for the Nashville Predators, possibly bringing in Brady Skjei and Jonathan Marchessault, they could be looking at a deep run next year.
In a swift response to Stamkos' departure, the Tampa Bay Lightning have signed Jake Guentzel. Guentzel addressed the media about the ongoing situation with Stamkos, offering high praise for the departing captain.
Guentzel was asked about the possibility of Stamkos leaving as he's coming in: «He's a Hall of Famer. He's a special player. I have the most utmost respect for the guy.»
«I'm not really sure on what's going on or what happened. Hopefully, there's still a chance he can come back. I would love to play with him and see where it goes.» #GoBolts
Stamkos' move to Nashville could signify a new chapter not only for him but for both franchises involved. As fans digest this major development, it's clear that the landscape of the NHL is shifting in significant ways.