A recent report confirmed that Steven Stamkos would enter free agency on July 1st, and the offer that he refused from the Tampa Bay Lightning was revealed.
Earlier today, we learned that Steven Stamkos plans on leaving the Lightning on July 1st, after spending 16 seasons, including 10 as captain, in Tampa Bay.
Per Pierre LeBrun:
“From Stamkos’ agent Don Meehan, who tells me regarding his client:
«He will be a free agent on July 1.»
So it would appear Stamkos is going to market Monday unless something changes in Tampa’s position. Will have more in a piece today in @TheAthletic”
A new report unveiled that the Lightning’s general manager, Julien BriseBois, offered an eight-year deal close to $3M AAV to Stamkos, and that the captain was looking for something near $4-5M AAV:
“The Lightning offered Steven Stamkos an eight-year deal at around $3M AAV. He was looking for $4M-$5M AAV depending on the term.”
While an eight-year deal at $3M would give Stamkos the opportunity to finish his career in the NHL at 42 years old, with the organization that drafted him in 2008, his decision to test the market could prove to be profitable.
Stamkos, 34, can still bring a lot to a team. Last season, he scored 81 points in 79 games, as well as six points in five playoff games.
