NHL Rumors: Can Lightning Bring Back Steven Stamkos Next Season?

As Steven Stamkos approaches unrestricted free agency next season, the Tampa Bay Lightning face a critical decision regarding their long-time captain.

Stamkos, who has been an integral part of the franchise's success, is set to become a free agent, and the team must navigate salary cap constraints to retain his services.

5️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ GOALS FOR STEVEN STAMKOS 👏 pic.twitter.com/r7XfWJmJ8G

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) January 19, 2023

With a projected cap space of over $12 million for the 2024-25 season, retaining Stamkos seemed more promising.

Nevertheless, contract negotiations and player preferences can evolve.

Stamkos, highly valued by the Lightning, might prioritize factors beyond finances, including his deep-rooted desire to remain with the team where he has spent the entirety of his career.

The outcome of these negotiations will depend on how both parties navigate the ever-changing landscape of NHL contracts and team dynamics.

With 60 days to go until opening night, here’s a throwback to 2012 when Steven Stamkos scored goal number 60

To this day Steven Stamkos is only one of twenty-two players to score sixty goals in a single seasonpic.twitter.com/HMOJL1yVEg

— NICK PAUL’S HYPEMAN 🇨🇦 (@BLXCKMASS1) August 11, 2023

Fans and experts eagerly await to see whether Stamkos continues to be a cornerstone player for the Lightning or embarks on a new chapter in his hockey career.

Over his 15-year career, spent entirely with the Lightning, the 33-year-old has amassed 515 goals and 1,056 total points across 1,003 games played. Photo Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports