The Tampa Bay Lightning signed their star captain Steven Stamkos to an eight-year deal Wednesday, keeping him off the market two days before free agency begins.

"I am excited to move forward with the Lightning today for the next eight years," Stamkos said in a statement. "It's not often that a player gets the chance to spend his career in one organization and I am hopeful that this agreement sets me on that path with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Most importantly, I look forward to working with my teammates, coaches and our management in our pursuit of winning a Stanley Cup."