Since Steven Stamkos was chosen as the top player in the 2008 NHL Draft, he's been the heartbeat of the Tampa Bay Lightning.
With two Stanley Cup wins under his belt and another close call last season, Stamkos has solidified his place in Lightning history.
However, as his current contract approaches its end, negotiations for a new deal have hit a rough patch. There's speculation that if Stamkos feels unwanted by the team, he might choose to leave.
There remains a level of uncertainty around Steven Stamkos' future in Tampa Bay, according to The Athletic.
Stamkos will he an unrestricted free agent following this season, but contract talks stalled last summer.
His former teammate, Alex Killorn, who shared in past victories, hinted at this possibility.
"I think if he could choose, he would stay," he said. "Everyone has a certain amount of pride. He's going to be a Hall of Famer. At a certain point, if they don't want you, he won't want to stay."
With Stamkos earning a hefty $8.5 million annually, his future with the Lightning remains uncertain. Will he stay or go? Only time will tell.