Contract extension discussions between Stamkos and the Lightning have been "productive" and "professional," reports Toronto's Sportsnet 590 The FAN. However, his agent, Don Meehan, also told station that the Feb. 29 trade deadline is " a sensitive issue."

Contract extension discussions between Stamkos and the Lightning have been "productive" and "professional," reports Toronto's Sportsnet 590 The FAN. However, his agent, Don Meehan, also told station that the Feb. 29 trade deadline is " a sensitive issue."

Analysis:

Stamkos has not been asked to waive his no-move clause, but he did tell the Tampa Bay Times, "The trade deadline is coming up in a few weeks ... whatever happens in the next couple weeks, there's obviously going to be some answers." Stamkos has maintained he wants to remain in Tampa Bay, but he doesn't seem pleased with coach Jon Cooper's use of him on the wing or his low ice time relative to other Bolts. And his fantasy value is well below what's expected from a top-three overall pick. A move to a different system could ratchet Stammer's production back up to better than a point-per-game and elevate him back into the discussion about the top players in the game.