Lightning lose longtime captain Steven Stamkos

Steven Stamkos, who captained the Lightning to back-to-back Stanley Cup victories, is leaving Tampa Bay after 16 seasons.

Why it matters: "Stammer" is one of the most productive and popular players to ever suit up for the Lightning. His departure marks the end of an era.

• Stamkos was Axios readers' pick for Tampa Bay's greatest-ever professional athlete in our recently completed bracket.

The latest: Stamkos, 34, is expected to sign a four-year contract with the Nashville Predators, per Pierre LeBrun of TSN and The Athletic.

What he's saying: Stamkos confirmed his departure in a post on X .

• "Thank you Tampa ❤️❤️," his post said. "I don't have the words yet ….. I will soon. It's still too early to process. Just wanted everyone to know how thankful we are for 16 years as a bolt."

Catch up quick: After the Lightning were eliminated from the playoffs, general manager Julien BriseBois told reporters that re-signing Stamkos was an offseason priority.

• BriseBois initially said he was "hopeful," but his tone shifted in recent days after a meeting with Stamkos' agent ended in an impasse.

Flashback: Stamkos was drafted by the Lightning with the first overall pick in 2008. He's been with the team since he was 18 years old.

Stunning stats: He has the most goals in a season (60) and a career (515) in Lightning history, among numerous other franchise records.

• He's twice led the NHL in goal-scoring and been named to seven NHL All-Star Games.

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