Steven Stamkos landing spots: 3 best destinations for veteran forward if Lightning decline offer to extend contract

Steven Stamkos has spent his entire career with the Tampa Bay Lightning, but that may soon change. Stamkos was drafted first overall in 2008 by the Lightning and helped lead Tampa Bay to back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021. He also is the face of the franchise and has spoken openly about how he wants to spend his entire career in Tampa Bay.

However, Stamkos spoke to the media on Wednesday and revealed he was disappointed to not have any talks over a new deal this summer, according to NHL.com's Tom Gulitti:

"To be honest, I’ve been disappointed in the lack of talk in that regard. It was something that I expressed at the end of last year that I wanted to get something done before training camp started. There haven’t been any conversations.”

Immediately, many wondered if that meant Stamkos would hit free agency after this season. If he does choose to leave, here are three teams that make the most sense for him.

3 landing spots for Steven Stamkos

#1, Toronto Maple Leafs

When Steven Stamkos was about to hit the open market in 2016, many expected the longtime Tampa Bay Lightning captain to go home and sign with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Stamkos ended up signing an eight-year contract extension with the Lightning, but if he doesn't re-sign, talks of him going home to Toronto will be fired back up.

First off, William Nylander is a pending free agent and if he leaves in free agency, the Maple Leafs could try and sign Stamkos to a cheaper deal to replace him. Also, at age 34, Stamkos likely won't fetch a crazy contract, meaning all 32 teams could realistically afford him.

#2, Detroit Red Wings

Detroit is close to home for Steven Stamkos and their general manager Steve Yzerman was his longtime GM in Tampa Bay.

Stamkos and Yzerman have a very good relationship, as both have praised one another throughout their careers. If Stamkos isn't brought back by the Lightning, it wouldn't be a surprise to see him reunite with his old GM in Detroit.

#3, Montreal Canadiens

The final team that could be a potential landing spot for Steven Stamkos is the Montreal Canadiens.

The head coach of the Habs is Martin St. Louis who played on the same line with Stamkos for parts of six seasons. St. Louis was a leader for Stamkos and helped show him the ropes of the NHL.

So, if Stamkos leaves Tampa Bay, playing for his old linemate in Montreal, which is also close to home, makes sense.