There are so few clues when it comes to the Steven Stamkos situation. To be honest, this is all on Stamkos. Many have speculated that it comes down to money, because that is usually what it does come down to...right? History tells us, time and time again, that it comes down to money, a desire to win a Championship, and familiarity. Usually in that order.
Players do often give hometown discounts. I am typing this from a city that knows all about that fact. Sidney Crosby should be making over ten million. He makes 8.7. But he wanted to stay in Pittsburgh and play with for the Stanley Cup.
Stamkos loves Tampa. This we know. He won't take 8 million though, but would he take 9? Nine in Tampa, along with the extra year which can be given him by his current team, and the fact that taxes in Tampa vs. other cities could add up an extra 3-5 million over the course of his contract could be a large determining factor here. When it comes to a chance to win a Cup, there may be no better option for Stamkos, especially when you consider that had Stamkos been healthy this year he might be playing for one right now....and currently I would be sitting in San Jose.
However, remember a contract is a two way street and Tampa is a successful team with some other HUGE looming contracts to consider. Hedman and Bishop are both entering their final years on their contracts and we are talking two players who are top ten at their positions in the NHL.
However, according to multiple sources I have spoken to over the last day or so, one of those factors may be moving out, as it appears Tampa is leaning towards Vasilevsky and away from Bishop.
I am not saying that will the Lightning can't make Stamkos work AND keep Bishop, but it sure makes things MUCH easier... Sources are telling me that there is a growing issue that is making this look more and more like Stamkos stays.
More to come after the Podcast.
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