Say it isn't so, Sir Steven

[Jets GM]

Say it isn't so, Sir Steven
Stamkos's name circulated in last minute deadline discussion

TAMPA BAY, FL - Rumors are circulating today after a tweet by TSN Hockey Insider Bob Mckenzie last night put Steven Stamko's name on the available list hours before the EHEC trade deadline expired "Stamkos was made available. Multiple offers made but TB GM decided against it". Coming from a situation where you don't know what to expect next with GM Cote's erratic and obscure behavior, this rumor has still disturbed Lightning followers. Stamkos, the only remaining player from Tampa Bay's championship team in 2010 is widely considered as a premier centerman in the EHEC.

No one yet has heard a reason for Stamkos being made available; however, the recent play and development of Calder Canidate 19 year old Tyler Seguin may have something to do with. Seguin, part of one of the biggest deals in EHEC history earlier this season was acquired to fill the hole left by Vincent Lecavalier's tragic career-ending injury. Since then, Seguin has emerged as an elite-level talent who could challenge for a spot among EHEC's elite list of players. Whether Stamkos is willing to give up the number one spot for a more physical role on a secondary unit (like Lecavalier did for Stamkos) remains to be seen, but it appears an offer containing a better suited player for that role or an elite level defensemen could be enough to get Stamkos out of Florida.

The much maligned TB GM has taken criticism for an unclear plan or path to repeating the success he achieved in his first season as GM. Tyler Seguin has performed well, but it will take another championship to justify the price tag he came with. Tyler Biggs was recently recalled from Norfolk the Lightnings AHL affiliate, while Tyler Cuma is enjoying a Calder like season in New Jersey. Needless to say, a trade moving Stamkos will be a defining moment in TB GM's command of the Lightning as to whether they can reestablished themselves as a Stanley Cup contender.