“Number one bullsh*t” – Fans SCOFF as Lightning GM Julien BriseBois explains reason for Steven Stamkos exit

Tampa Bay Lighting GM BriseBois gets questioned as fans seethe about Steven Stamkos' treatment on a contract extension.

“Number one bullsh*t” – Fans SCOFF as Lightning GM Julien BriseBois explains reason for Steven Stamkos exit

Steven Stamkos and Julien BriseBois [Image Credit: Imago/Tampa Bay Times]

Steven Stamkos’ exit from the Tampa Bay Lightning after a 40-goal season stirred up social media controversy with fans heavily rattled by the GM’s treatment of their ex-captain. The forward currently signed a $8 million AAV contract with the Nashville Predators for 4-years.

The initial contract extended to him by the Bolts was for an 8-year $24 million deal while they signed an extension of a 7-year $63 million contract with Jake Guentzel. The difference in treatment angered not only the fans but also the ex-team captain who led them to back-to-back Stanley Cup wins.

YouTube video

Stamkos also led the Lightning to three Cup Finals, wearing Bolts jacket for 16 seasons. The legend’s reign came to an end, who earlier claimed that he’d like to retire with Lightning if possible. In the end, the lack of mutual agreement led to his exit. Bolts GM Julien BriseBois appeared in front of the media to talk about the incident, stating,

FS Video
I know the fans are disappointed. I know Steven's disappointed. And I'm disappointed. Signing Stamkos to his reported asking price would not be putting ourselves in the best position to chase championships moving forward.
Julien BriseBois on X.

He further added how he felt Stamkos’ asking price was too much for the organization which is not looking for play-to-play but for the future. “It comes with the job,” he stated. On the other hand, the Preds got themselves an NHL veteran who is considered one of the best goal-scorers in the league.

Steven Stamkos explains reasons why he chose Nashville Predators out of rest competitive teams 

Steven Stamkos‘ signing with the Nashville Predators became “a unique experience” as it’s the first time the forward signed with any team outside of the Tampa Bay Lightning since his 2008 NHL Draft. He said that Preds’ “aggressive” approach and willingness to sign him motivated him to join the saber-toothed tiger.

Steven Stamkos [Image Credit: Imago]
Steven Stamkos [Image Credit: Imago]

Stamkos adds, that a lot goes into choosing a team and for him, Nashville “hit a lot of those boxes.” His family and kids were also a huge part of him choosing the right city, as he notes,

One, being a competitive team. Two, going to an organization that’s committed to winning. Three, probably the most important part, is it a fit for you and your family?
Steven Stamkos as per Robby Stanley of NHL.com.

Predators GM Barry Trotz said, “To me, it’s an organizational win for today.” He added that he’s excited to see how the new team joiners will play along and perform in the 2024-25 regular season games. 

Stamkos also joined the celebration by saying he’s excited to be part of Nashville and looks forward to being part of the dynamic team line. Being a part of the championship-winning team, he says, Predators does not fall short in that aspect at all.

In case you missed: