Lightning GM gives a major update on Steven Stamkos' extension talks

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Tyler Ball
May 15, 2024 (3:20 PM)

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With the Tampa Bay Lightning eliminated from the Stanley Cup playoffs, all eyes shift to Steven Stamkos and his impending free agency today we got a major update on the situation.

The Tampa Bay Lightning as a team has been pretty quiet regarding their plans with Steven Stamkos. Yesterday that all changed when GM Julien BriseBois spoke about the situation and where he feels it might go. He first says that he thinks they have set themselves up well to maneuver around other big contracts.

They all have contracts that should, technically, give us a little more room to maneuver around them, the GM explained about the core players. «I hope we can reach an agreement with Steven in this vein, in order to retain his services, because he is obviously a great player.

While he remains hopeful for a deal Julien BriseBois admits that potential negotiations aren't going to be easy.

Is it going to be easy given the circumstances? I never expected it would be. The salary cap being what it is, it creates challenges. We have a lot of good players under contract, contracts which, I continue to believe, will bring a lot of value over the course of the following years.

As for Steven Stamkos his goals when it comes to where he wants to play next season have not changed. His preference is to remain in Tampa Bay and continue with the Lightning.

Obviously, certain things have changed now, he explained when discussing a potential new deal. I have an amazing young family that has put roots down in this city and I really enjoy living here and playing here. From that perspective, the decision is more than just me now.

With both sides at least publicly wanting to get a deal done it would be surprising if Steven Stamkos is not a member of the Tampa Bay Lightning next season. Even still more wild things have happened and until the contract is signed nothing is guaranteed.

Source: Hockey Feed - Lightning GM BriseBois sends message to Steven Stamkos on live TV How will it impact negotiations?