The clock could be ticking on Steven Stamkos‘ time with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Lightning GM Julien BriseBois said the two sides have not been able to reach terms on a deal yet. The longtime team captain is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent on Monday.
“As we stand here right now, we haven’t been able to reach an agreement yet,” BriseBois said, per Lightning reporter Gabby Shirley.
“I don’t know if we will be able to reach an agreement but we met with Steven’s agent again yesterday and both sides are still interested in getting a deal done but we have not been able to agree to terms that are satisfactory for both sides. I think, at this time, it’s probably best if I leave my comments to that for the time being.”
Stamkos, who was drafted first overall by the Lightning in 2008, holds the franchise records for goals (555) and points (1,137) over his 16 seasons with the club.
The 34-year-old from Markham, Ont., finished third on the Lightning in scoring during the regular season with 81 points (40 goals and 41 assists) in 79 games. He also had five goals and one assist in five playoff games as the Lightning fell in the first round to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers.
Meanwhile, BriseBois struck a more optimistic tone on star defenceman Victor Hedman, who is eligible for an extension Monday.
“We’ve had discussions with Victor’s agent about an extension. In his case, we have more runway before we have to get a deal done. He still has one year left on his current agreement. That being said, the plan remains to be in a position to announce an agreement or a new contract with Victor in the coming day.”
After months of negotiations, the Tampa Bay Lightning and star player Steven Stamkos have failed to reach an agreement on a new contract. The two sides have been in talks for quite some time, but it appears that they have hit a roadblock in their discussions.
Stamkos, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1st, has been with the Lightning since he was drafted first overall in 2008. He has been a key player for the team, consistently putting up impressive numbers and leading them to success in the playoffs.
The Lightning have made it clear that they want to keep Stamkos on their roster, but it seems that they were unable to come to terms on a deal that would satisfy both parties. Reports indicate that Stamkos was seeking a long-term contract worth upwards of $10 million per year, while the Lightning were hesitant to commit to such a high salary for an extended period of time.
This failed negotiation could have significant implications for both Stamkos and the Lightning. If Stamkos hits the open market as a free agent, he will likely have no shortage of suitors willing to pay top dollar for his services. On the other hand, the Lightning will have to find a way to replace their star player if he decides to sign elsewhere.
It remains to be seen what the future holds for Stamkos and the Lightning, but one thing is certain: this failed negotiation has left both parties in a difficult position. Only time will tell how this situation will ultimately play out, but one thing is for sure – negotiations between Lightning and Stamkos have hit a major roadblock.