While he still collected two goals in a losing effort Thursday, Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos is poised for an uncharacteristic season.
The two goals give Stamkos 33 on the season and a share of fifth overall, but compared to what Stamkos has accomplished in years prior, it leaves him falling short of many people's expectations for his contract year.
With 33 goals in 71 games this season, the 26-year-old is on pace to finish with 38 goals, which besides the lockout-shortened 2012-13 season and his injury-plagued 2013-14 campaign would be his lowest total since his rookie season.
For Stamkos, finishing with 38 goals could be seen as less of a catastrophe, and more of a sign of slight regression or bad luck. The two-time Rocket Richard Trophy winner has seen his shooting percentage stay consistent at 16 percent over the last two seasons - his lowest totals since his rookie campaign.
On top of finding the back of the net at a lower rate, his point total has also been lacking. With 57 points through 71 games, Stamkos is on pace to finish with 65 points, which would be his lowest total in a full season since his first year in the league.
All this comes as Stamkos is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, while rumors have swirled about where he could end up. Nevertheless, he will be - and rightfully so - a hot commodity, with many suitors willing to dish out the big bucks for his services.
However, after falling under a point per game pace the last two seasons, it might be interesting to see if weary teams steer clear of inking Stamkos to a long-term contract.
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