“The Potential to Win is Here” – Steven Stamkos

Steven Stamkos scores against the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2015. (photo Kim Klement / USA TODAY Sports)

Steven Stamkos spoke today at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time to a host of media outlets via conference call. I got the privilege of being on the line to listen to a host of reporters ask Stamkos questions regarding this whole contract signing process.

Stamkos quickly and confidently answered the questions fired at him one at a time.

He was asked why this decision took so long, and he said,

“Obviously I’m human…  If I would have had a crystal ball this would have been done last year and there would have been fewer distractions…. and knew that this was going to feel so good, and be the best decision for both parties, I would have done this a year ago.”

“This was a decision of great magnitude, it’s my life, my career. I have had my ups and downs here. Everything went through my head, I wouldn’t be human if I didn’t admit it. It was worth looking at the possibilities.”

 (photo Kim Klement / USA TODAY Sports)

“This is the team that brought me up, and made me the player I am today. Some people chase money and I don’t judge them for that. That’s not what it’s all about for me, both sides made sacrifices to keep this core group together.”

“I love Tampa, the organization has been first class to me and my family. The potential to win is here.”