The Tampa Bay Lightning made headlines on Tuesday by signing veteran forward Cam Atkinson to a one-year contract valued at $900,000. This offseason move is significant for both Atkinson and the Lightning, bringing together a player known for his scoring ability and a team with championship ambitions.
A Fresh Start for Atkinson
Atkinson joins Tampa Bay following a contract buyout from the Philadelphia Flyers, which was finalized after the Flyers' regular season concluded in April. This buyout set the stage for a new chapter in the 35-year-old's career, offering him a fresh opportunity to showcase his talents.
Atkinson's career has been a blend of high-scoring seasons and challenging injuries. Known for his resilience and offensive prowess, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to find the back of the net. During his debut season with the Flyers in 2021-22, Atkinson scored 23 goals and tallied 50 points over 73 games, marking his seventh 20-goal campaign.
However, Atkinson faced a significant setback when he missed the entire 2022-23 season due to surgery for a herniated disc. Despite this, his performance in the previous season—scoring 13 goals and adding 28 points in 70 games—underscores his capacity to contribute meaningfully on the ice.
Collegiate Success and Professional Beginnings
The Connecticut native's journey to the NHL began when he was selected in the sixth round of the 2008 NHL Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets. Before turning professional, Atkinson had an impressive collegiate career at Boston College, where he amassed 68 goals and 124 points over three years. His tenure with the Eagles was highlighted by winning the prestigious Frozen Four in 2010 and being a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award in 2011, which honors the NCAA's top player.
Atkinson's professional career took off with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he established himself as a reliable scorer. His track record and determination to bounce back from injuries have made him a valuable addition to any team seeking depth and experience in their forward group.
Impact on the Lightning
For the Tampa Bay Lightning, Atkinson's signing is a strategic move to bolster their roster with a seasoned player capable of delivering in high-pressure situations. The Lightning, known for their competitive edge in the NHL, are likely to benefit from Atkinson’s scoring touch and veteran presence.
Atkinson's ability to perform in critical moments could prove crucial as the Lightning aim to maintain their competitive status in the league. His addition adds depth to their forward group, providing head coach Jon Cooper with more versatility in offensive lineups.
Tampa Bay's decision to bring Atkinson on board speaks volumes about their belief in his potential to make a significant impact once again. For Atkinson, this opportunity with the Lightning is not just a new beginning but also a chance to reignite his career and contribute to a team with a robust winning culture.
As the NHL season approaches, all eyes will be on Atkinson to see how he integrates into the Tampa Bay lineup and whether he can return to his high-scoring form. For now, both the player and the team appear optimistic about what lies ahead.