The Tampa Bay Lightning bolstered their forward lineup with a significant offseason move on Tuesday by signing veteran forward Cam Atkinson to a one-year contract worth $900,000. This strategic acquisition is a testament to Tampa Bay's commitment to maintaining its competitive edge in the NHL.
A Fresh Start for a Proven Scorer
Cam Atkinson, a Connecticut native and a sixth-round pick by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2008 NHL Draft, brings a wealth of experience to his new team. Atkinson's career has been characterized by an impressive scoring ability and a remarkable resilience in the face of injuries. This one-year contract with the Lightning offers the 35-year-old forward a fresh start following a recent contract buyout from the Philadelphia Flyers as their regular season concluded in April.
Known for his offensive prowess and tenacity, Atkinson has had multiple high-scoring seasons throughout his career. A two-time All-Star, he showcased his scoring abilities during his tenure with the Flyers, particularly in his debut season in 2021-22, when he netted 23 goals and contributed 50 points in 73 games. This performance marked his seventh 20-goal campaign.
Overcoming Adversity
Atkinson’s journey has not been without its challenges. He missed the entire 2022-23 season due to herniated disk surgery, a significant setback for any athlete. However, his return to form saw him score 13 goals and add 28 points in 70 games in the past season, underscoring his ability to overcome adversity and perform at a high level.
Collegiate Success
Before embarking on his professional career, Atkinson had a standout collegiate career at Boston College. Over three years with the Eagles, he amassed 68 goals and 124 points, contributing significantly to his team’s success. One of the highlights of his college career was winning the prestigious Frozen Four in 2010. Additionally, he was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award in 2011, an accolade that honors the NCAA's top player.
Adding Depth and Experience
For the Tampa Bay Lightning, bringing Atkinson on board is a strategic move aimed at adding depth and experience to their forward group. His ability to score and his experience in high-pressure situations could prove crucial as the Lightning strive to remain a top contender in the NHL. Atkinson’s signing not only reinforces the team’s offensive arsenal but also embodies the Lightning’s belief in his potential to return to being an impactful player.
The Lightning’s decision to invest in Atkinson reflects their foresight in recognizing the value he brings beyond just his stats. His resilience, and ability to perform under pressure, make him a valuable asset as they aim to sustain their competitive stature in the league.
Atkinson’s journey from a collegiate standout to a proven NHL scorer, marred by significant injuries, and now finding a new opportunity with the Lightning, serves as an inspiring narrative of perseverance and talent. As the new season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how this veteran forward integrates into Tampa Bay’s system and contributes to their quest for another championship run.