Lightning's Steven Stamkos Linked to Central Club

NHL free agency starts in less than a week, but Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos remains without a contract. It has been established that both Stamkos and the Lightning want to keep their relationship going. However, the clock is certainly ticking, as July 1 is right around the corner.

If the Lightning do not have Stamkos signed to his new deal by July 1 and he hits free agency, he will have a plethora of suitors. This is because he is still a legitimate star at this juncture of his career, posting 40 goals and 81 points in 79 games in 2023-24.

In a recent column for The Athletic , NHL insider Pierre LeBrun wrote that he believes the Nashville Predators are interested in signing Stamkos. He also mentioned the Predators as an expected suitor for Stamkos on Insider Trading.

After taking a big step in the right direction with their rebuild in 2023-24, it would not be surprising if the Predators look to add this summer. Their top six could use more star power, and Stamkos would undoubtedly give them that.

However, while the Predators would likely pursue Stamkos in free agency, the Lightning still have time to get him signed to a new deal before July 1. Given his importance to the club, they should work incredibly hard to finalize a contract with their captain. Yet, with their limited cap space, they are likely going to need to move at least one of their players.

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