Veteran Forward Cam Atkinson Joins Tampa Bay Lightning
The Tampa Bay Lightning have bolstered their roster with the addition of seasoned forward Cam Atkinson, signing him to a one-year contract valued at $900,000. This acquisition marks a significant chapter in the career of Atkinson, a player known for his scoring ability and perseverance through injuries.
Throughout his career, Atkinson has experienced the highs of prolific scoring seasons and the lows of battling various injuries. Hailing from Connecticut, Atkinson was initially drafted in the sixth round of the 2008 NHL Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets. His journey now brings him to Tampa Bay following a contract buyout from the Philadelphia Flyers, which took place as the Flyers concluded their regular season in April.
This move opens a fresh opportunity for the 35-year-old forward, who has earned a reputation for his offensive skills and resilience. A two-time All-Star, Atkinson demonstrated his scoring prowess during his inaugural season with the Flyers in 2021-22, netting 23 goals and amassing 50 points over 73 games. This performance marked his seventh 20-goal season in the NHL.
Unfortunately, Atkinson's momentum was halted as he missed the entire 2022-23 season due to herniated disk surgery. Despite this setback, his past contributions are a testament to his capability. In the preceding season, he recorded 13 goals and 28 points in 70 games, showcasing his ability to bounce back from adversity.
Atkinson's roots trace back to Boston College, where he played for three years before beginning his professional career. During his tenure with the Eagles, he accumulated 68 goals and 124 points, including a memorable Frozen Four victory in 2010. In 2011, his standout performances earned him finalist honors for the Hobey Baker Award, which recognizes the NCAA's top player each season.
Beginning his professional career with the Columbus Blue Jackets, Atkinson now looks to bring his wealth of experience and skill to the Tampa Bay Lightning. His signing adds valuable depth and experience to the Lightning’s forward group, and his knack for scoring in high-pressure situations aligns well with the team’s championship aspirations.
Tampa Bay's decision to sign Atkinson is a reflection of their belief in his potential to make a meaningful impact on the team. For Atkinson, this move represents not just a new beginning, but an opportunity to contribute to a squad that consistently competes at the highest levels of the NHL.
As the Lightning aim to remain competitive in the fiercely contested league, Atkinson’s presence could prove crucial. His ability to find the back of the net and navigate high-stakes scenarios offers the team a blend of skill and veteran leadership. This strategic acquisition underscores Tampa Bay's commitment to enhancing their roster with seasoned talents capable of complementing their existing core.
Injury concerns aside, the Lightning are banking on Atkinson’s proven resilience and determination to overcome past challenges. Should he recapture the form that made him a two-time All-Star, Atkinson could be an instrumental figure in Tampa Bay's pursuit of success.
As the upcoming NHL season approaches, all eyes will be on Cam Atkinson and his contributions to the Tampa Bay Lightning. The veteran forward’s journey continues with renewed vigor, providing fans and analysts alike with much to anticipate in the games ahead.