Steven Stamkos Linked to 4 Potential Free-Agent Destinations

Steven Stamkos could wind up being the biggest name on the free-agent market as the Tampa Bay Lightning have yet to sign the superstar forward to a contract extension. Stamkos came out before the season started and admitted he was disappointed there was nothing done last offseason when he was eligible.

Sportsnet's David Morassutti recently published a piece destinations who have potential to sign Stamkos should the Lightning not get a deal done before July 1, they include:

Tampa Bay Lightning

Yes, the Lightning are very much in the mix to get this done before free agency even begins. The team has 16 players signed for next season and a projected $12.5 million in cap space. They'll likely have to make a move or two to create some more cap space as Stamkos is projected to eat up $8-9.5 million in annual cap space. Lightning GM Julien BriseBois had this to say recently regarding the Stamkos extension:

Steven and I share a common goal of bringing the Cup back to Tampa — that’s our objective. In order for us to do that in future years, we’re going to need to spend our cap dollars as wisely as possible. In order for me to do that, I feel like I need to gather more information.

Detroit Red Wings

The Red Wings will be there if Stamkos hits the open market and Steve Yzerman will be making the first call. His relationship with Stamkos can't be understated as the two are extremely close. Detroit has a ton of cap space to work with as they project to have $29 million to spend. Yzerman would love to give Stamkos a big chunk of it.

Montreal Canadiens

A dark horse who are looking to make a huge leap forward, the Canadiens will be involved in contract talks if Stamkos hits the open market. GM Kent Hughes has $17.4 million to work with and are looking to clear up even more space with Josh Anderson on the trade market. Montreal needs goal scoring and Stamkos would help considerably. His relationship with Martin St Louis is something to keep an eye on here.

Nashville Predators

The Preds surprised a lot of people including themselves this season. Good thing they didn't go to that U2 concert. The Predators have a projected $19.2 million in cap space to work with this summer and will be looking to add some offense. Juuse Saros will be dangled in trade talks and the core of their team could change dramatically with moving their netminder and bringing in Stamkos, among others.