Steven Stamkos Staying Put, Lightning GM Says

TAMPA, FL — Tampa Bay Lightning fans don’t have to worry that the team’s run for a return to the playoffs might hit a bump courtesy of the departure of Steven Stamkos.

Steve Yzerman, Lightning vice present and general manager, issued a statement Monday regarding a rumored trade of the team’s captain.

“As February 29th approaches, I am stating today that Steven Stamkos will not be traded before the NHL’s trade deadline,” Yzerman said. “I have said repeatedly that it is our hope to reach an agreement with Steven on a new contract at some point, and with 27 games remaining in the season, our entire organization, Steven included, wants to focus on making the playoffs.”

Stamkos’ current contract, worth an estimated $7.5 million a year, is in its final year. It expires July 1. Rumors about a possible trade began to heat up last week when Stamkos was asked if he would waive his contract’s no-movement clause.

Yzerman’s statement was meant to put that concern to rest.

Stamkos has expressed similar sentiments.

“I want to win with Tampa,” he told ESPN. “I don’t think that’s going to change between now and 30 days from now.”

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