We recently wrote about how disappointed Steven Stamkos is that the club still hasn’t opened negotiations with him on a new contract. He has been working in Tampa since 2008, he is the face of the club and his contract expires in the summer.
There are already speculations on the Internet about where he could end up as a free agent. CBS Sports names Toronto, Nashville, Florida or Detroit as possible destinations.
Stamkos hails from the Toronto area, and if the Maple Leafs fall in the first round, an earthquake can be expected here. Stamkos’ former teammates Ryan McDonagh and Luke Schenn are already playing in Nashville. Engagement in Florida would be ironic, it is a regional rival, but with a very strong team. He wouldn’t have to move far. Detroit is still rebuilding, a mentor would be good, and they have more than enough cap space here.
Or it will all be different and Stamkos will extend in Tampa. According to recent reports, Julien BriseBois has finally gotten down to business and has begun interviews with Stamkos and Victor Hedman.
BriseBois revealed to reporters that he spoke with Stamkos immediately after Game 5 with the Panthers and has been corresponding with his agent. He also confirmed contact with the agent of Swede Hedman, a year younger.
“Obviously, Steven Stamkos needs a contract and we want him to stay with us. You all have seen how Stammer has raised his game since the transfer deadline, it has been tremendous to watch. You see how he leads others on the ice. What can be seen less is how great a leader he is off the ice as well,” said BriseBois.
Tampa has some expensive veterans on the team. Nikita Kucherov, Brayden Point, and Andrei Vasilevskiy each take up $9.5 million per year under the cap. Stamkos’ ceiling burden was 8.5 million so far, with Hedman it is still 7.875 million for next year. Journalists have not yet speculated on what demands the 34-year-old forward or 33-year-old defender may have.
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