Fans mock Julien BriseBois' explanation for letting Steven Stamkos walk

Following a highly publicized standoff, the Tampa Bay Lightning and franchise icon Steven Stamkos officially parted ways earlier this afternoon. Stamkos is now a member of the Nashville Predators, having agreed to a four-year contract that carries an AAV of $8 million, which is $5 million higher than the AAV he was offered by the Lightning. 

And while the Lightning did make a major splash by acquiring the rights to forward Jake Guentzel and locking him up with a hefty extension, Tampa Bay fans are still not happy over the fact that Stamkos will be playing elsewhere for what will likely be the final years of his NHL career. 

According to general manager Julien BriseBois, he knows that the fan base is disappointed with what has transpired, and both he and Stamkos are too.

"I know the fans are disappointed. I know Steven's disappointed. And I'm disappointed," he explained during his media availability just minutes ago.

BriseBois explained that he felt the asking price of Stamkos was too much and would hinder Tampa's ability to sign players that would enable them to continue competing for the Stanley Cup.

"Signing Stamkos to his reported asking price "would not being putting ourselves in the best position to chase championships moving forward," he said.

"I don't think we're going to gain much by going play by play here, especially right now because everything is raw and everyone is so emotional," he continued.

BriseBois is well aware that he'll now be known as the GM who wasn't able to re-sign one of the greatest players in franchise history.

"It comes with the job," he said.

And it wouldn't be long before the fans began chiming in, deriding what they felt were excuses from the Lightning GM. 

Recommended articles:

• Stamkos explains why he left Tampa to sign in Nashville.
• Steven Stamkos leaves the Lightning for big money!
• Jake Guentzel officially signs new 7 year contract.
• Bob McKenzie reveals 5 teams in the running for Stamkos.
• Jake Guentzel agrees to terms on new contract.