REPORT: Steven Stamkos to stay in Tampa Bay

The National Hockey League has hit peak insanity today. The Edmonton Oilers traded Taylor Hall for Adam Larsson in what was immediately called the worst 1-for-1 trade in NHL history. Minutes later, the Montreal Canadiens traded PK Subban to Nashville for Shea Weber in what was immediately called a competitor for the worst 1-for-1 trade in NHL history.

It was all fun and games. But now, it looks like the Leafs had a loss of their own, as Steven Stamkos has decided to stay in Tampa Bay.

This certainly comes as a surprise, as many figured that with the process dragging out as long as it did, Stamkos would almost assuredly test the market. Rumours of friction between Stamkos and Tampa Bay staff had been swirling for quite some time, and given that their offer came with the lowest assume cap hit, nobody expect him to go through with it.

But he has. The dream is dead, and the Leafs will have to look elsewhere to add another superstar talent, should that be the direction they decide to go.