On Steven Stamkos, the Tampa Bay Lightning, and other possible destinations …
- Darren Dreger of TSN: It’s not likely that Steven Stamkos will sign with the Maple Leafs if he hits the open market on July 1st when you look at the facts. The Lightning will move off of their initial offer of $8.5 million. If Stamkos goes to the open market, multiple teams will come up with multiple ideas to lure him – the financial benefits, endorsement ideas and arguments as to why he’s the missing piece in their cup run. The Leafs are not close to being up contenders.
- Mike Johnston of Sportsnet: Starting to hear that there is a real possibility that Stamkos could waive his no-trade clause before the deadline. Elliotte Friedman as said it’s possible that the Maple Leafs or another team could trade for his rights after the season. In addition to the Maple Leafs and Flyers, other teams that could be interested in trading for Stamkos, and what they might have to offer in a trade.
Detroit Red Wings – maybe they could give up on of Gustav Nyquist or Tomas Tatar. Other trade chips could include Brendan Smith, Joe Hicketts, Anthony Mantha and draft picks.Buffalo Sabres – the Sabres were willing to move Tyler Ennis last month according to reports. Other names they could make available: Jake McCabe, Brendan Guhle, Zemgus Girgensons, Justin Bailey and Cody Franson. There were rumors at the draft Lightning were considering a trade that involved Stamkos and the 2nd overall pick – Jack Eichel.
Colorado Avalanche – potential pieces could include Matt Duchene or Tyson Barrie.
Anaheim Ducks – they have defenseman in Sami Vatanen, Cam Fowler, Hampus Lindholm and Shea Theodore. Jakob Silfverberg has three years left on his deal at a reasonable rate. The Ducks could try to include Ryan Kesler, even if retain salary.
Calgary Flames – Mark Spector reported in October that the Flames talked to the Lightning about Stamkos. Would they move Dougie Hamilton? Spector noted they were okay with trading one of their young skaters – would that include Sam Bennett, Sean Monahan or Johnny Gaudreau?
- Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News: Some are thinking that Sabres would be better option for Steven Stamkos than the Maple Leafs. They are closer to contending than the Maple Leafs, owner Terry Pegula isn’t afraid to spend money, and they are close to home without having the daily media circus.
- Habs Links: Nick Kypreos said if Stamkos goes to the open market, “My money is on Montreal.”