Shocking Statement Emerges Regarding Stamkos' Future in Tampa

Steven Stamkos is entering the final season of his contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning. There has been a lot of speculation about if his future will continue to be in Tampa Bay after this season. Today an NHL insider was able to comment on Tampa Bay's plan.

The Tampa Bay Lightning and Steven Stamkos have been synonymous since he was drafted first overall in 2008. Now things might be changing in Tampa Bay.

With things seeming rocky between the Lightning and Stamkos a new era of players could be on the horizon. Many people believed that Steven Stamkos would retire as a Lightning player after he turned down going home to Toronto to return. Now it seems as though this might not happen and it wouldn't be his choice.

The Lightning have Brayden Point and Anthony Cirelli down the middle. They also have plenty of talent on the wings. If Stamkos isn't willing to take a shorter or team-friendly deal it sounds as though the Lightning are willing to just let him walk. While this seems cold-blooded the Lightning are looking to continue their dynasty and business decisions such as the one with Stamkos are part of that process.

The next six months or so will be fascinating to see this storyline play out.