May 22, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning center Steven Stamkos (91) celebrates after scoring a goal against the New York Rangers in the second period in game four of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
3. Steven Stamkos
Until Steven Stamkos actually signs an extension with Tampa Bay he will be linked in speculation to the Toronto Maple Leafs. That’s just how life goes for a talented Ontario boy coming up for UFA.
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The most likely scenario is that Stamkos resigns with Tampa Bay, but that won’t stop the wondering.
The more realistic option for Toronto, and cheaper, is to target other players on the Lightning that they won’t be able to afford in a couple of years. They can’t keep everyone. It just won’t happen. They’ve got too many talented players that are going to need hefty raises.
The only thing that might save Tampa right now is the contract that Calgary just inked Mark Giordano to. If they can get Victor Hedman to take a similar deal then they’ll be much better off salary cap wise – but that’s not likely going to happen given the difference in age between Hedman and Giordano.
The Stamkos to Toronto rumblings aren’t going to cease until the ink is dry on a new contract, which may take longer than people are ready to endure.
Next: 4. Who Ships Out At The Deadline?