The Tampa Bay Lightning have made headlines in the offseason by signing veteran forward Cam Atkinson to a one-year contract worth $900,000. This signing marks a significant addition for the Lightning, who are looking to bolster their lineup with experienced talent as they aim for continued success in the NHL.
At 35 years old, Atkinson embarks on a new chapter after an eventful tenure with the Philadelphia Flyers, which ended with a contract buyout as the Flyers' regular season concluded in April. The Connecticut native brings a wealth of experience and a proven scoring ability to Tampa Bay, hoping to make an immediate impact.
A Career of Highs and Challenges
Atkinson’s journey in professional hockey has been marked by impressive high-scoring seasons and bouts with injuries. A sixth-round selection by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2008 NHL Draft, Atkinson quickly made a name for himself with his scoring prowess and resilience. His tenacity and skill earned him two NHL All-Star selections and solidified his reputation as a reliable offensive force.
During his tenure with the Flyers, Atkinson dazzled in his debut season in 2021-22, where he netted 23 goals and contributed 50 points in 73 games. This performance stood out as his seventh 20-goal campaign. However, the following season was marred by health challenges, as he missed the entirety of the 2022-23 season due to a herniated disk surgery. Despite this setback, Atkinson managed to put up 13 goals and 28 points in 70 games this past season, showcasing his ability to bounce back from adversity.
Collegiate Stardom and Professional Beginnings
Before making his mark in the NHL, Atkinson honed his skills at Boston College, where he enjoyed a stellar collegiate career. Over three years, he amassed 68 goals and 124 points, playing a crucial role in the Eagles’ success. His efforts were instrumental in Boston College's 2010 Frozen Four victory, and he was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award, recognizing the NCAA’s top player, in 2011.
Atkinson began his professional career with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he quickly established himself as a key player. His tenure with Columbus laid the foundation for his evolution into a skilled, dependable forward, and his transition to the Tampa Bay Lightning represents a promising new opportunity.
Opportunity with the Lightning
For the Lightning, Atkinson’s signing is a strategic move to add depth and experience to their roster. Known for their competitive edge and championship aspirations, Tampa Bay sees Atkinson’s potential to contribute significantly as they strive to remain at the top of the league. His ability to score and experience in high-pressure situations could be crucial assets for the team.
The Lightning’s decision to bring Atkinson on board underscores their confidence in his ability to make a meaningful impact. As Atkinson gears up for this new chapter, both he and the Lightning organization are poised for a season filled with anticipation and promise.
With Atkinson now part of a talented and ambitious team, Tampa Bay fans can look forward to seeing how the seasoned forward will contribute to their quest for another Stanley Cup. His journey, marked by resilience and a proven track record, suggests he is more than ready to seize the opportunity presented by the Lightning.