The Tampa Bay Lightning bolstered their roster on Tuesday with a significant offseason acquisition by signing forward Cam Atkinson to a one-year contract valued at $900,000. This move adds a proven veteran to their ranks, enhancing their offensive depth and experience.
Atkinson’s Journey to Tampa Bay
Cam Atkinson, a Connecticut native, was initially selected in the sixth round of the 2008 NHL Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets. His career has been marked by impressive high-scoring seasons and the resilience to overcome challenging injuries. Before his arrival in Tampa Bay, Atkinson was with the Philadelphia Flyers, where he recently faced a contract buyout as their regular season concluded in April. This buyout presented a golden opportunity for Atkinson to start anew, and Tampa Bay seized the moment.
Impressive Track Record
Atkinson, now 35, has demonstrated his scoring prowess and resilience throughout his career. A two-time All-Star, he notably showcased his offensive abilities during his debut season with the Flyers in 2021-22, netting 23 goals and contributing 50 points in 73 games — marking his seventh 20-goal campaign. However, his momentum was hampered by herniated disk surgery, causing him to miss the entire 2022-23 season. Despite the setback, Atkinson managed to return to form, scoring 13 goals and adding 28 points in 70 games this past season.
Collegiate Achievements
Before turning professional, Atkinson had an illustrious collegiate career at Boston College, where he played for three years. During this period, he amassed 68 goals and 124 points, showcasing his scoring talent. His time with the Eagles was marked by winning the prestigious Frozen Four in 2010. Additionally, in 2011, Atkinson was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award, which honors the NCAA's top player, further highlighting his exceptional talent and potential.
A Fresh Start with Tampa Bay
Transitioning to the Tampa Bay Lightning provides Atkinson with a fresh start and a chance to contribute to a team with championship aspirations. For Tampa Bay, Atkinson's signing is more than just acquiring another player; it's about adding a seasoned veteran with a proven track record in high-pressure situations. His ability to score and his extensive experience are assets that the Lightning aim to leverage as they strive to remain competitive in the NHL.
The move clearly indicates Tampa Bay's belief in Atkinson's potential to be an impactful player once again. This addition not only strengthens their forward group but also brings a level of depth and experience that could prove crucial during critical moments in the season.
Looking Forward
As the Lightning prepare for the upcoming season, integrating Atkinson into their roster is expected to pay dividends. His past performances and ability to overcome adversity suggest that he will be a valuable contributor. Both Atkinson and the Tampa Bay Lightning appear poised to benefit from this new chapter in their respective journeys.
In summary, the signing of Cam Atkinson represents a strategic move by the Tampa Bay Lightning to enhance their roster with a proven, resilient scorer. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Atkinson to see how he integrates with his new team and what impact he will have on their pursuit of success.