Stamkos expected to sign 8-year, $68M extension with Lightning
Scott Audette / National Hockey League / Getty
Steven Stamkos isn't going anywhere.
The face of the franchise has reportedly decided to remain with the Tampa Bay Lightning, according to Bob McKenzie of TSN.
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.
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.
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