The Tampa Bay Lightning made headlines on Tuesday with the acquisition of veteran forward Cam Atkinson, signing him to a one-year contract valued at $900,000. This strategic offseason move underscores Tampa Bay’s commitment to boosting their squad's depth and experience as they aim to stay competitive in the NHL.
Atkinson’s illustrious career has been marked by a blend of prolific scoring and injury struggles. A native of Connecticut, Atkinson was a sixth-round pick by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2008 NHL Draft. He arrives in Tampa Bay following a recent contract buyout from the Philadelphia Flyers, a development that concluded with the Flyers' regular season in April and opened a new chapter for the seasoned 35-year-old forward.
A Scoring Dynamo
Cam Atkinson is renowned for his offensive capabilities and tenacity on the ice. A two-time All-Star, he demonstrated his scoring talent notably during his debut season with the Flyers in 2021-22. During that season, he tallied 23 goals and garnered 50 points over 73 games, marking his seventh 20-goal campaign. These statistics highlight his innate ability to find the net and contribute significantly to his team's offensive efforts.
Overcoming Adversity
Despite his talents, Atkinson’s journey has not been without its setbacks. He missed the entire 2022-23 season due to herniated disk surgery, a significant hurdle in any athlete’s career. However, his resilience is evident. Prior to this setback, in the preceding season, he managed to net 13 goals and add 28 points across 70 games — a testament to his determination and skill.
Before carving out a professional career, Atkinson honed his skills at Boston College. Over three years with the Eagles, he amassed an impressive 68 goals and 124 points. His collegiate career was punctuated by a victory in the prestigious Frozen Four in 2010 and a finalist spot for the Hobey Baker Award in 2011, underscoring his status as one of NCAA’s top players.
A Fresh Start in Tampa Bay
Signing with the Tampa Bay Lightning offers Atkinson what can be viewed as a fresh beginning. For the Lightning, adding Atkinson to their roster provides them with a blend of scoring ability and invaluable experience. With championship aspirations, Tampa Bay's decision to bring Atkinson on board speaks volumes about their faith in his potential to recapture his form and make a meaningful impact on the ice.
Atkinson’s presence is poised to add depth to Tampa Bay's forward group, and his proficiency in high-pressure situations could be a decisive factor for a team aiming to maintain its competitive edge in the league. Known for his scoring prowess and resilience, Atkinson’s role in the squad could potentially be pivotal as the Lightning navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.
The Lightning’s faith in Atkinson is a testament to his reputation and the hope that he can once again be a significant force on the ice. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how Atkinson integrates into the team and whether he can leverage this opportunity to leave a lasting mark with Tampa Bay.