Insider links Steven Stamkos to four teams

The offseason is here for the Tampa Bay Lightning, so the talks intensify about captain Steven Stamkos's future. He's set to hit the free-agent market on July 1st, and it's got teams lining up for a shot at signing him.

Stamkos has been a Tampa Bay Lightning stalwart his whole career, but with some financial hurdles on the horizon, he might be eyeing a change of scenery. At 34 years old, he still put up 81 points, including 40 goals!

According to reports, the Detroit Red Wings, Nashville Predators, Montreal Canadiens, and the Toronto Maple Leafs are all throwing their helmets into center ice.

Now, while some of these teams might not be at the top of the standings right now, the Leafs, Red Wings, and Predators are all gearing up for Stanley Cup playoff runs next season. Don't count out the Canadiens � they might have a secret weapon in their corner. Stamkos's former teammate, Martin St-Louis, is the Habs head coach, and that connection could give them an edge in the race.

In the short term, joining the Leafs or the Red Wings might be more enticing for Stamkos, considering their closer proximity to championship contention. Ultimately, he's likely to remain in Tampa Bay, yet it won't stop other teams from trying to land the future hall of Famer.

As seen on Puck Reporter:Four teams emerge as favorites to land Steven Stamkos this summer

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