Tampa Bay Bolsters Offense by Signing Veteran Cam Atkinson
The Tampa Bay Lightning made headlines with a significant offseason move by inking veteran forward Cam Atkinson to a one-year contract worth $900,000. This acquisition reflects Tampa Bay’s strategy to enhance their offensive depth and experience, aiming to sustain their competitive edge in the NHL.
The 35-year-old Atkinson, known for his scoring prowess and resilience, joins the Lightning after a mixed tenure with the Philadelphia Flyers. A recent contract buyout by the Flyers, following the conclusion of their regular season in April, paved the way for Atkinson’s new chapter with Tampa Bay.
Atkinson's career has been characterized by impressive high-scoring seasons tempered by challenging injuries. The Connecticut native was a sixth-round selection by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2008 NHL Draft and has since built a reputation as a reliable offensive contributor. His journey to Tampa Bay includes seven 20-goal campaigns and two All-Star appearances, underscoring his capability on the ice.
Atkinson’s stint with the Flyers showcased his offensive talent, particularly during the 2021-22 season when he recorded 23 goals and 50 points in 73 games. However, his momentum was interrupted by herniated disk surgery, which caused him to miss the entire 2022-23 season. Despite this setback, Atkinson's return on the ice was marked by resilience, as he managed to net 13 goals and 28 points in 70 games this past season.
Before his professional career, Atkinson excelled at Boston College, where he played for three years. His collegiate career was distinguished by 68 goals and 124 points, as well as a prestigious Frozen Four championship win in 2010. Additionally, he was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award in 2011, which honors the NCAA's top player.
Atkinson’s professional journey began with the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his transition to the Tampa Bay Lightning offers a fresh start and an opportunity to contribute to a team with championship ambitions. For the Lightning, Atkinson’s signing represents a strategic addition, providing both depth and experienced leadership to their forward group.
The Lightning hope that Atkinson’s ability to score and perform in high-pressure situations will be pivotal as they aim to remain a formidable force in the NHL. The organization’s decision to bring Atkinson on board is a testament to their confidence in his potential to be an impactful player once again.
As Tampa Bay continues to prepare for the upcoming season, fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how Atkinson integrates into the team’s dynamic. His experience, coupled with his offensive abilities, could prove to be a vital asset as the Lightning pursue their goals for the season.