Lightning’s Steven Stamkos linked to pair of Original Six teams

Steven Stamkos has been the heart and soul of the Tampa Bay Lightning for over a decade, but as the longtime captain approaches the end of his contract, there could be difficult decisions ahead.

Although Stamkos made it clear he wants to retire in Tampa Bay, and the front office has confirmed they’ll try to re-sign the star forward, there is a scenario where the veteran tests free agency for the first time in his career.

And if that happens, the Montreal Canadiens and Detroit Red Wings are two suitors that would make sense — the former especially — at least according to NHL.com’s Dan Rosen.

“If Stamkos becomes a UFA, I think he’ll want to go to a big-market team on the cusp of a bright future,” the insider explained in the latest edition of his weekly mailbag. “The Montreal Canadiens make sense, especially with Martin St. Louis as their coach. Stamkos and St. Louis were close when they were teammates in Tampa Bay and they’re still tight. St. Louis would love to have a player like Stamkos to show the way in Montreal. He’s the type of veteran, experienced, championship-caliber scorer and leader that they need.

“And, let’s face it, Montreal is Montreal, a legendary hockey market, and playing for the Canadiens is special. That’s the one that makes the most sense if Stamkos leaves. The other would be the Detroit Red Wings for a reunion with former Lightning and current Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman.”

Both the Habs and Wings would greatly benefit from the injection of a bonafide goal scorer of Stamkos’ caliber. But will the two-time Stanley Cup champion — who has played with the Lighting since being drafted No. 1 overall in 2008 — be available this summer?

Steven Stamkos wants to remain in Tampa Bay for life