But it appears to be far from a sure thing that the star forward will finish his career in Tampa.
At the beginning of the season, Stamkos stoked headlines by commenting on his frustration with the lack of conversation on a contract extension between his camp and GM Julien BriseBrois.
At the time, BriseBrois was non-committal about getting a deal done with his captain, and said they would have to assess the season.
With the Lightning having a less than ideal start to the season and still no contract to speak of, insiders have begun to speculate that the interest in Stamkos around the league is growing.
Stamkos put up 84 points in 81 games last season, and this season has 10 goals and 15 assists in 24 games - not showing signs of slowing down at age 33.
If the Lightning are out of a playoff spot at the deadline and Stamkos remains unsigned, there will be no shortage of interest.
With Andrei Kuzmenko seemingly falling out of favour with coach Rick Tocchet, could the Canucks make a move for the Lightning captain?
https://www.hockeyunplugged.com/Longtime-NHL-Captain-Set-To-Be-Apart-Of-Blockbuster-Trade-307622?fbclid=IwAR3_H6nYigbSxaaWhJ-FjdfZR_HO-DOV9f85eSAuI7Au5Q6MwsaoCS0SlFI
POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 6 | 1207 ANSWERS LATEST | Blockbuster trade shaping up involving longtime captain: Canucks on it? If made available, should the Canucks get in on Steven Stamkos? | ||
Yes | 606 | 50.2 % |
No | 601 | 49.8 % |
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