Steven Stamkos explains why he refused to sign with the Toronto Maple Leafs
Photo credit: NHL
Steven Stamkos explains why he refused an offer from the Toronto Mape Leafs to sign him.
Steven Stamkos, who recently joined the Nashville Predators, revealed why he turned down the Toronto Maple Leafs in free agency in 2016. In a heartfelt letter to the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Players Tribune, Stamkos explained his decision, saying :
"When I re-signed in 2016, I wanted to finish what we started. I had this vision of leading us through the playoffs in front of our city, lifting the Cup at Amalie, living out childhood dreams."
Stamkos emphasized that his choice was driven by his commitment to Tampa Bay, the team that drafted him first in 2008. His dedication paid off, as he captained the Lightning to three Stanley Cup Finals appearances, winning two and solidifying his legacy as a franchise legend.
The Maple Leafs, who later signed another Toronto native, John Tavares, still have not reached the Stanley Cup Finals. Given his successful career in Tampa Bay, the organization likely regrets this missed opportunity with Stamkos.
| POLL | ||
17 JUILLET | 63 ANSWERS Steven Stamkos explains why he refused to sign with the Toronto Maple Leafs Do you think the Toronto Maple Leafs had a real change of signing Steven Stamkos? | ||
| Yes | 5 | 7.9 % |
| No | 58 | 92.1 % |
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