Stamkos expected to sign 8-year, $68M extension with Lightning
Steven Stamkos isn't going anywhere.
Excited to be back for 8 more years @TBLightning ! Here we go .....
— Steven Stamkos (@RealStamkos91) June 29, 2016
The face of the franchise has reportedly decided to remain with the Tampa Bay Lightning, according to Bob McKenzie of TSN.
Stamkos's deal with TB is expected to come in at eight years, with an AAV of $8.5M.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) June 29, 2016
Stamkos' deal will be front-loaded, with the star sniper earning $9.5 million each of the first five seasons, $7.5 million in the sixth season, then $6.5 million in the final two years, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.
The news comes less than two days prior to the start of the free-agent signing period, when there would have been no shortage of suitors vying to lure him out of the Sunshine State.
No-move clause on Stamkos deal.
— Craig Custance (@CraigCustance) June 29, 2016
The decision means he'll stick with the only team he's ever played for after being made the first overall selection in the 2008 NHL Draft.