Tampa Bay Lightning Add Depth with Cam Atkinson Signing
The Tampa Bay Lightning made a significant addition to their roster on Tuesday, signing veteran forward Cam Atkinson to a one-year contract worth $900,000. This move represents an important development for both the franchise and the seasoned player, who has experienced a career marked by high-scoring seasons and challenging injuries.
A New Chapter for Atkinson
Cam Atkinson, a native of Connecticut, was originally a sixth-round pick by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2008 NHL Draft. Following a recent contract buyout from the Philadelphia Flyers at the conclusion of their regular season in April, the 35-year-old forward found himself at a crossroads. The buyout paved the way for this new opportunity with Tampa Bay, symbolizing a fresh start for Atkinson.
Known for his remarkable scoring ability and resilience, Atkinson has a proven track record. He is a two-time All-Star who demonstrated his offensive skills notably during his debut season with the Flyers in 2021-22, where he netted 23 goals and racked up 50 points in 73 games. This performance marked his seventh 20-goal campaign, highlighting his consistent offensive output throughout his career.
Overcoming Challenges
The journey hasn't always been smooth for Atkinson. Despite showcasing his talent, he faced a significant setback by missing the entire 2022-23 season due to herniated disk surgery. However, his resilience shone through as he managed to score 13 goals and contribute 28 points in 70 games last season.
Atkinson's hockey career began long before his professional debut. He played at Boston College for three years, amassing an impressive 68 goals and 124 points during his collegiate career. His time with the Eagles included winning the prestigious Frozen Four in 2010 and being a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award, which honors the NCAA’s top player, in 2011. These early achievements laid a strong foundation for his professional success.
Impact on Tampa Bay
Signing with the Tampa Bay Lightning offers Atkinson a prime opportunity to contribute his wealth of experience and scoring ability to a team with championship aspirations. Tampa Bay's decision to bring him on board reflects their belief in his potential to be an impactful player once again.
For the Lightning, Atkinson's addition adds depth and experience to their forward group. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations and his knack for finding the back of the net could be crucial as Tampa Bay aims to maintain their competitive edge in the NHL. The Lightning have shown a pattern of making strategic moves to bolster their roster, and Atkinson’s signing is a testament to that approach.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how Atkinson integrates with his new team and whether he can regain his previous form after a period of recovery and adjustment. If he can, the Lightning will have secured not just a player, but a seasoned veteran with a history of overcoming adversity and excelling at the highest levels of the sport.
In the dynamic world of professional hockey, where experience and skill are invaluable, Cam Atkinson's journey with the Tampa Bay Lightning promises to be a compelling storyline to follow.