Breaking: Lightning’s Head Coach is Currently facing backlash for contentious call against….see more

Star defenseman Victor Hedman would like to take a little time to reflect on the past before discussing his future with the Tampa Bay Lightning.,What stands out most is his 15-year connection with Steven Stamkos, the franchise’s longtime public face who, after failing to agree to a new deal with the club they helped win the Stanley Cup in 2020 and 2021, left in free agency.

It was unexpected by everyone. Hedman announced on Tuesday that he had extended his contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning for another four years, for a total of $32 million, ensuring that he will continue to wear the jersey until the 2028–29 season. The team’s all-time leading scorer, Steven Stamkos, signed a deal with the Nashville Predators for the same amount of time and the same salary.

The prospect of entering our locker room and Amalie Arena without his presence on the ice would be difficult to fathom, according to Hedman. I find that quite strange. However, hockey is ultimately a business, and this is its current state. After being selected first overall by the Lightning in the 2008 NHL Draft, Stamkos, now 34 years old, joined the league. A year later, Tampa Bay took Hedman with the second overall pick, and the two teens became pillars of a team that has been among the league’s most successful for the last ten years and more.

Naturally, I am ecstatic to announce my extension. “I love wearing that (Lightning logo) on my chest,” Hedman said, adding that he also loves the organization, the city, and the fans. “When everything is said and done, I would like to retire as a Bolt,” he continued with an optimistic tone. Of all my goals in life, the most important one is to play to my potential so that my team can bring home another Stanley Cup.