The longtime captain of the Tampa Bay Lightning played his first game as a member of the visiting Nashville Predators, facing the franchise he represented for 16 seasons.
At the first media timeout, 6:07 into the game, Stamkos was honored with a video tribute followed by a heartfelt standing ovation. The Lightning played a 90-second highlight reel showcasing his career, including his moments lifting the Stanley Cup in 2020 and 2021. He took a victory lap around the ice, waving his stick in appreciation as many fans in the sold-out crowd of 19,092 donned No. 91 jerseys. It was a chance for fans to express their gratitude and bid farewell to the player who helped elevate the Lightning to a premier franchise.
Stamkos had a strong performance, assisting on two second-period goals that brought Nashville level at 2-2. However, the Lightning dashed the celebration by scoring a goal just 3:22 into overtime, securing a 3-2 victory.
“It was definitely a strange and emotional night for me,” Stamkos said. “But once the tribute was over, I focused on the game and what I needed to do to help my team win. We just fell short tonight.”
The evening was also poignant for his former coach and teammates.
“I feel fortunate to have witnessed a decade of his career,” said Jon Cooper, who became the Lightning’s coach in March 2013, near the end of Stamkos’ fifth NHL season. “It brought back great memories, but it was odd seeing him on the blue line during the anthem not in our jersey. Once the game started, you just focused on the competition.”
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