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After losing two key pieces at the start of free agency, the Tampa Bay Lightning tried to solidify their long-term future by signing No.1 center Brayden Point on Wednesday for an eight-year extension until 2030 for 76 millions of dollars.
The 25-year-old spent his five NHL seasons with the Lightning, registering 139 goals and 310 points. He led the team in points (48) and goals (23) in the regular season.
“I am very happy to be staying in Tampa for nine more years,” Point said. “I want to thank the entire Lightning organization for that and to thank our fans. Ever since I was drafted by Tampa, I always felt like Tampa was home, and the fans played a part. huge to make my stay in Tampa so wonderful. “
Signed on the dotted line. ✍️ pic.twitter.com/G9ITouYrIG
– Tampa Bay Lightning (@TBLightning) July 28, 2021
He led all NHL players with 14 playoff goals, including seven on the power play, as Tampa Bay won the Stanley Cup for the second straight season.
“Brayden is a key contributor to the success of the Lightning and one of the most dynamic players in the NHL,” said general manager Julien BriseBois. “Being able to accept the terms of a long-term contract with him is great news for our organization going forward. Brayden is not only a talented player but also a fierce competitor which fits well with our team’s pedigree. Our organization looks forward to him being an integral part of this team for many years to come. “
The much-anticipated split from back-to-back champions began with forward Blake Coleman signing with Calgary and defenseman David Savard joining Montreal, the team Tampa Bay beat in the Stanley Cup final three weeks ago.
“We all knew this was going to happen,” Savard said of the Lightning breakup. “I think everyone in that locker room knew a lot of the guys were going to be leaving this summer so I know it will be a different team next year. But it was fun. Knowing that everyone was going to leave after this race. , made it so special to us. “
The Lightning have also taken a few other steps, including returning 2020 Cup-winning defenseman Zach Bogosian on a three-year, $ 2.55 million contract and adding Brian Elliott as a new alternate goaltender on a contract. one year of $ 900,000.
“I always knew deep down that I probably always wanted to play for Tampa again,” said Bogosian, who signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs after winning the Stanley Cup with the Lightning after the 2019-20 season. “I didn’t know when it would be, but for the opportunity it was good to jump on it.”
The Lightning also added veteran center Pierre-Edouard Bellemare in a two-year, $ 2 million contract.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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