Victor Hedman open up about Steven Stamkos departure, captaincy

When Steven Stamkos left the Tampa Bay Lightning for the Nashville predators in free agency on July 1, it sent shockwaves through the NHL, many were caught by surprise and even upset. Now a Tampa Bay Lightning defender is opening up about the departure of the long time captain, Which might cost some friction in the dressing room.

According to Chris Johnston of TSN, Victor Hedman had some strong things to say about Stamkos and his time being in Tampa, even going so far as to call him a perfect captain.

It sounds like the departure of Steven Stamkos might have caused some friction in the room, especially with long time players who never thought their captain would ever be put in a position to have to leave the Tampa Bay Lightning franchise.

To me, it sounds like Hedman could refuse the captaincy if it's offered to him out of respect for Stamkos and what he did for the Lightning organization over the years.

I wouldn't blame Hedman if that's how things unfolded, BriseBois has lost control of his franchise and proven he's out of his depth.