The captain and legend of the Tampa Bay is leaving the club to join the Nashville Predators

The NHL free agency market has opened, and several surprising and sensational transfers occurred on the first day.

However, the most shocking development was the departure of Tampa Bay Lightning's leader and captain, Steven Stamkos. The Canadian winger signed a contract with the Nashville Predators, agreeing to a four-year deal with an annual salary of eight million euros.

Tampa Bay drafted Stamkos first overall in the 2008 NHL Draft. During his tenure with the club, he scored 555 goals, amassed 1,137 points, won two Stanley Cups, and served as team captain for ten years.

In response, Tampa Bay signed American Jake Guentzel as Stamkos' replacement. The new winger inked a seven-year contract with the Lightning, with a salary of nine million per year.