An emotional Steven Stamkos receives a standing ovation in his return to Tampa Bay

Long-time Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos is making his return to Tampa this evening, now as a member of the Nashville Predators.

The Lightning elected not to re-sign Stamkos this past offseason, which surprised the majority of hockey fans. After all... Stamkos is the team's all-time leader in nearly every statistical category and delivered back to back Stanley Cups as the team's captain. So... what gives?

Whatever the situation between Stamkos and Lightning ownership and management, it's clear that that Lightning fans still love Stamkos.

The Lightning played this beautiful tribute video on the in-arena jumbotron during a break in play this evening:

That video tribute prompted a standing ovation from the Lightning faithful, which in turn prompted Stamkos to take a bit of a victory lap for his fans.

Check it out:

The last time I remember Stamkos taking a lap at Amalie Arena like that he was hoisting the Stanley Cup. I honestly never thought I'd see the day where he donned another NHL team's jersey...