Lightning Captain Steven Stamkos Likely Staying Put

Steven Stamkos made his way back into trade rumors recently, which Darren Dreger brought attention to. Yet, general manager Julien BriseBois openly stated that he expects Stamkos to be in their lineup for opening night next season. Furthermore, he has not been asked to waive his no-move clause for the Expansion Draft. With all of that said, Tampa should still have their captain for next season.

That is certainly not a bad thing at all, as Stamkos is still a very good player at the NHL level. In 38 games this season, the 31-year-old scored 17 goals and registered 34 points. Therefore, he is an offensive threat every single time he steps on the ice.

This does create questions of who the Lightning will be trading to become cap compliant, though. Stamkos carries an $8.5 million cap hit for the next three seasons, which is expensive. The Lightning will likely want to get rid of Tyler Johnson's contract if he is not taken in the Expansion Draft. With him, the team may also need to move out Ondrej Palat, Yanni Gourde or Alex Killorn. No matter what they do, it will be difficult.

Nonetheless, Stamkos should be back next year after BriseBois' comments and will try to back a third straight Stanley Cup to Tampa.