I wouldn't be surprised to see Stamkos join the Leafs. They have some nice pieces in Marner, Rielly, Nylander, Kadri, JVR. Babcock is a winning coach and adding Stamkos really accelerates their rebuild.
I wonder if the is any way Treliving can get in on the bidding this summer? If the Flames could offer 7 years $65M and get him in that 9-10 range he would really put us over the top. For the Flames to be in this they would have to dump Wideman, Engellend, Smid, Raymond, and Bollig money to free up $15M in space right there. The Flames are an intriguing option for Stamkos. He would get to play in Canada but in a much smaller media market. He would get to join a team that boasts 3 extremely good young forwards (one of which is a playmaking superstar) and the team also has 3 solid Dmen signed long term.
If Stamkos wanted to play in Canada, and join a team that is on the cusp of contention then the Flames are his best fit. If he wants to play center the team can offer that and build a lone around he and Johnny. Bennett could stay on the wing and form a gritty, skilled shut down line with Monahan.
Dare to dream
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