Lightning GM Gives Steven Stamkos Update
Lightning GM Julien BriseBois has his plan set for Steven Stamkos this season.
Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos is in the final season of his contract. With Lightning GM Julien BriseBois wanting to wait until the end of the season to make a decision about Stamkos' long-term future in Tampa Bay, many have wondered if the star center could be moved this season.
However, BriseBois has not put an end to all of that talk. While speaking to reporters, he had this to say on the matter: "Steven Stamkos is not getting traded, so we can put that one to bed. That is not going to change between now and the deadline under any circumstances."
It is understandable that BriseBois has no desire to move Stamkos before the deadline passes. The Lightning have a 22-17-5 record and are fighting for a playoff spot. With this team having high expectations, it just would not make sense for them to move out Stamkos. With that, he also noted that he still sees Stamkos sticking with Tampa Bay past this season, even if contract talks will not occur until after the season.
Stamkos, 33, is once again one of the Lightning's best players this season, posting 18 goals and 41 points in his first 41 games.