Stamkos on CBA negotiations: “We just want a fair deal”

One of the stars that attended yesterday’s CBA negotiations is hopeful a deal can be reached before Sept. 15.

He’s also hoping it’s a fair one.

That’s the message from Tampa Bay Lightning forward Steve Stamkos who, following Tuesday’s meetings, spoke with the Tampa Bay Times about union solidarity and what both the owners and players’ union are looking for.

“Both parties want to start the season on time,” he said. “We saw what can happen with previous [work stoppages] and we don’t want that.

“We just want a fair deal that can hopefully start the season on time.”

Stamkos said that appearances by stars like himself, Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, Jason Spezza and John Tavares showed “that we’re in support of the union.” The reigning Maurice Richard Trophy winner also stressed how important it was for young players to be actively involved in union affairs.

“For the young players of the league this new agreement is going to affect us,” the 22-year-old said. “It’s important for players to take an interest and learn as much as we can and be involved in this process.”

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