Steven Stamkos on Monday faced the Tampa Bay Lightning for the first time since leaving his former team. His return home was an emotional event.
The Lightning played a 2-minute tribute video for Stamkos prior to their game against Stamkos’ new team — the Nashville Predators. The video tribute left Stamkos emotional and evoked many positive memories for him.
Steven Stamkos gets emotional watching his tribute video in Tampa 🥺 pic.twitter.com/lqehSFOfw5
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) October 28, 2024
In addition to his tribute video, Stamkos received a standing ovation and got to skate around the ice.
Oh that was fantastic. Two minute vid, a standing ovation and a stake around the ice through his numbers for Stamkos. And then a “Steven Stamkos” chant from the fans. Scoreboard lit up with photos, videos and “thank you” messages. @TBLightning @PredsNHL pic.twitter.com/UOemiiFt8e
— Greg Wyshynski (@wyshynski) October 28, 2024
Stamkos was drafted No. 1 overall by the Lightning in 2008. He played 16 seasons for them, was named to seven All-Star Games, and won two Stanley Cups.
Stamkos signed a four-year, $32 million deal with the Nashville Predators over the offseason. He entered Monday’s game with just one goal on the season.
