The Sports Corner

Tampa’s coach and GM not on same ‘Stamkos’ page

It was talked about all over the league. It was the big campaign of the summer. It was a hyped-up rookie debut.

Steven Stamkos was supposed to be the next big thing in Tampa Bay.

But it took nine games for him to score his first NHL goal - when he recorded two tallies and an assist Thursday against Buffalo - and his impact has not been immediate whatsoever. Prior to his three point outburst, he only had one assist on an overrated Lightning team.

But who’s fault is it when it comes to Stamkos’ lack of production? It sure isn’t the rookie’s.

Of course, when it comes to scoring droughts, it’s usually blamed on the player himself, but in this case, the finger should be pointed at the coach, Barry Melrose.

When Stamkos was drafted first overall at this past NHL entry draft, the ownership and management of this Tampa Bay team did a major advertising campaign on the young sensation by promoting the phrase, “Seen Stamkos?”

So far that question has not only been ironic, but has been the punch line of Lightning hockey jokes so far.

But if the management has taken such huge effort and initiative to attract fans through their new rookie, then why is Stamkos not being showcased properly? The number one pick should be given top offensive opportunities.

Heading into the Buffalo game, Stamkos was ranked 45th amongst NHL rookies when it came to ice-time, under 10 minutes. Anyone who has watched this youngster play knows he is gifted and talented, but those numbers are too low for the Ontario native to put that skill to good use.

Not to mention he is playing alongside players that are not named Vincent Lecavalier or Martin St. Louis.

Skating between Ryan Malone and Adam Hall is not the best way to develop a future all-star, and it’s only been recently that the coaching staff has acknowledged this by putting Stamkos on the powerplay with the afore-mentioned players.

If the coaching staff does not utilize Stamkos to the point where he is effective, then they better rethink this team’s tactics because it not only embarasses the marketing staff but also the entire organization.

It’s time for the management to give its coaches a pair of Stamkos glasses because they are not seeing that this team’s saviour is sitting on the bench wearing number 91.

Give him more ice time and then maybe hockey in Tampa Bay can continue to produce more wins.