Lightning's Steven Stamkos: Sign and trade an option for pending UFA

Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman has not ruled out the possibility of executing a sign-and-trade agreement with Stamkos, a pending unrestricted free agent, the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Analysis:

Representatives for Stamkos reportedly have begun talking to other teams with the Maple Leafs, Sabres and Red Wings said to be leading contenders to acquire the stud center once the signing period opens this Friday. As for the Lightning, a sign-and-trade deal would make sense if retaining Stamkos looks to be a lost cause -- that way, the Bolts would at least stand to acquire asset(s) in return. Thanks to a full no-move clause, the 26-year-old can be selective on his next landing spot. It's no guarantee that Stamkos will leave the Lightning, as the next team likely will have to raise the ante on the $7.5 million he averaged annually over five years of his now-expiring contract.