On Monday night time, Steven Stamkos returned to Tampa Bay for the primary time since being traded in the summertime, and the Lightning honored their former star on his return.
An emotional return to Stamkos
For his first 16 seasons within the NHL, Steven Stamkos performed for the Tampa Bay Lightning, however after an extended profession in Florida, he was lastly traded to the Predators in the summertime.
Returning to Tampa Bay for the primary time this week, the Lightning gave Stamkos an emotional welcome again to the workforce the place he constructed his profession and paid tribute to his former participant.
A heroic welcome to Steven Stamkos again in Tampa 💙 pic.twitter.com/jB7A4TxTEN
— Sports activities Middle (@SportsCenter) October 29, 2024
After the sport, Stamkos was requested what he thought in regards to the tribute and replied: It was top quality. I would not anticipate something greater than that.
“I used to be fairly emotional. I did not know how one can react. I began tearing up somewhat bit, so I made a decision to return to the bench.”
The previous Lightning captain hasn’t utterly closed the door on his former workforce but, and it is clear he nonetheless has a whole lot of love for the workforce he spent a lot time with.
“I do not assume that is goodbye,” Stamkos mentioned. “Thanks, I am going to see you once more.”
Stamkos signed a four-year, $32 million contract with the Lightning earlier than this season, however the future Corridor of Famer’s postgame phrases may trace at a potential return to his previous workforce later in his profession. .
Though Nashville misplaced attributable to Stamkos’ return, the 34-year-old was ready so as to add two assists to his season file in a 3-2 loss to Tampa Bay. The Kandy participant was praised for his help after the opening aim, however the house followers had been lower than blissful when he arrange the equalizer late within the sport.
Nevertheless, the Lightning nonetheless got here out on high, and the win moved the workforce to 6-3 to open the hockey season.
