July 29, 2008 | 5:35pm ET
Lightning sign Stamkos TheFourthPeriod.com
The Tampa Bay Lightning have signed center Steven Stamkos to a three-year, entry-level contract worth $875,000 per season.
Stamkos, 18, can earn as much as $8.55 million over the length of his contract if he reaches certain bonuses.
"It is with great pleasure that we formally announce the signing of Steven today," said Lightning VP of Hockey Operations Brian Lawton said. "It is obvious to all of our staff in a brief period of time that Steven is a very special young man with great potential. His work ethic and eagerness to learn have been very impressive.
"We believe with our veteran leadership that Tampa Bay is the perfect scenario for Steven to grow and mature as a player and person on and off the ice."
The native of Markham, Ontario, was drafted first-overall by the Lightning in June after scoring 58 goals and accumulating197 points in 61 games with the Sarnia Sting of the OHL last season.
