In a move sure to cause fans to spit out their coffee first thing Monday morning, the Tampa Bay Lightning have traded Steven Stamkos, along with Zach Budish, to the Chicago Blackhawks for injured star Jonathan Toews and centre Michael Frolik. The deal includes salary retention by Chicago.

Stamkos, the Lightning's leading scorer so far this season (7G 7A in 13 games), returns to the team he was acquired from just over a year ago. "Berny's been making me offers on Stamkos for almost a year, and he finally made one I couldn't refuse" said GM Geoff Smith. Budish has played a depth role for the Lightning, registering just 2 points so far this season.

Toews, while currently on IR, is a top notch goal scorer, who will complement Sidney Crosby on the top line. Frolik, a consistant 2-way centre, will take Stamkos' 2nd line centre spot immediately, he was 13 points in 17 games so far this season.

According to our research staff, the Lightning have now acquired Victor Hedman, Jonathan Toews and Michael Frolik for Tyler Seguin (and previous UFA signing Budish). >> Full story