Erik Cernak mistakenly exposes the real reason for Steven Stamkos' exit from the Tampa Bay Lightning
Photo credit: HTR
Steven Stamkos' surprising move to the Nashville Predators sent shockwaves through the NHL, leaving the Tampa Bay Lightning in a state of transition.
It's been a summer of unexpected twists for the NHL, with Steven Stamkos' departure from the Tampa Bay Lightning being the most notable. After a storied career with the Lightning, including two Stanley Cups and a memorable 60-goal season, Stamkos has signed a four-year, $32 million contract with the Nashville Predators. The move, which many believed was just a negotiating tactic, has now become a reality, shifting the landscape for both teams.
With Stamkos gone, the Lightning have begun retooling their roster, aiming to address their defensive vulnerabilities. One key move involves Jake Guentzel, who is expected to play a significant role similar to Stamkos but with a fresh, younger perspective. Guentzel's ability to handle rush situations, honed by playing alongside Sidney Crosby, offers a new dynamic for Tampa Bay.
In a recent interview, Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Erik Cernak shed light on the team's strategy. Cernak highlighted the impact of AHL Syracuse coach Benoit Groulx, who played a crucial role in his development. According to Cernak, Groulx's tough coaching was instrumental in refining his skills and preparing him for the NHL.
Cernak credited AHL Syracuse coach Benoit Groulx for agreeing to go out on the ice with him before practice when the defenceman was with the Crunch, a critical step in his grind towards the NHL. Groulx taught him «all the small details I have to do, add to my game. He was hard on me. Sometimes you don't like it, but that's the way you get better and get to your dream.
He also confirmed one thing I'd heard: the Lightning thought they were vulnerable against the rush in 2023-24, and some of the changes made were to address that.
He also confirmed one thing I'd heard: the Lightning thought they were vulnerable against the rush in 2023-24, and some of the changes made were to address that.
The departure of Stamkos marks the end of an era for Tampa Bay, ushering in a new chapter that will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Whether the Lightning's strategy will prove successful remains to be seen, but the team is clearly committed to evolving and addressing their past shortcomings.
As Tampa Bay navigates this significant change, the NHL will be watching closely to see how the team adapts and whether their new approach will bring continued success.
Source Sportsnet:
32 Thoughts: A collection of late off-season notes}»
32 Thoughts: A collection of late off-season notes}»
| POLL | ||
26 AOUT | 91 ANSWERS Erik Cernak mistakenly exposes the real reason for Steven Stamkos' exit from the Tampa Bay Lightning Do you think the Tampa Bay Lightning made the right decision by parting ways with Steven Stamkos? | ||
| Yes | 27 | 29.7 % |
| No | 64 | 70.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
Latest 10 stories
