### Tampa Bay Lightning Secure Yanni Gourde with Long-Term Contract Extension The Tampa Bay Lightning have made a significant move by signing forward Yanni Gourde to a six-year contract extension valued at nearly $14 million. This decision comes after Gourde's return to the Lightning from the Seattle Kraken, where he played a pivotal role in the team's success during their back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2020 and 2021. Gourde expressed his desire to remain in Tampa, emphasizing the importance of stability as he approaches the latter stages of his career. The contract, which carries an average annual value of $2.33 million, is seen as a strategic decision that benefits both the player and the franchise, allowing Gourde to finish his career in a city he loves while providing the Lightning with a reliable veteran presence on the ice [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/lightning_get_multiple_benefits_with_yanni_gourde_extension/s1_16448_42278251][https://www.apnews.com/article/lightning-yanni-gourde-contract-96874c875dc89a37f658155bab94225c]. ### Breakdown of the Contract and Its Implications 1. **Contract Details**: - Gourde signed a six-year extension worth approximately $14 million, averaging $2.33 million annually. - The contract will extend through the 2030-31 NHL season, coinciding with Gourde's age-39 season [https://www.nhl.com/lightning/news/lightning-sign-forward-yanni-gourde-to-a-six-year-contract]. 2. **Player Background**: - Gourde, 33, was originally signed by the Lightning as an undrafted free agent in 2014 and has since become a key player, contributing to two Stanley Cup championships. - He was selected by the Seattle Kraken in the 2021 expansion draft but returned to the Lightning in a trade earlier this year [https://www.nbcsports.com/nhl/news/lightning-sign-yanni-gourde-to-a-6-year-contract-worth-nearly-14m]. 3. **Performance Metrics**: - In the 2024-25 season, Gourde recorded 31 points (seven goals, 24 assists) across 57 games, showcasing his ability to contribute offensively despite a mid-season injury [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/lightning_sign_f_yanni_gourde_to_6_year_14m_extension/s1_17050_42274959]. - His career totals stand at 347 points (133 goals, 214 assists) in 602 NHL games, with a significant portion of his success attributed to his time with the Lightning [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/lightning_sign_yanni_gourde_to_six_year_contract/s1_14825_42274676]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Contract Financials**: - Total Value: $13.98 million - Average Annual Value: $2.33 million - Duration: Six years, ending in the 2030-31 season [https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/45437000/lightning-sign-yanni-gourde-six-year-14m-extension]. - **Career Statistics**: - Regular Season: 602 games, 133 goals, 214 assists, 347 points - Playoffs: 88 games, 40 goals, 43 points [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/lightning_sign_yanni_gourde_to_a_six_year_14m_extension/s1_17050_42274959]. ### Conclusion: A Strategic Move for the Lightning In summary, the Tampa Bay Lightning's decision to extend Yanni Gourde's contract is a strategic move that aligns with both the player's aspirations and the team's long-term goals. 1. **Stability for Gourde**: The contract allows Gourde to remain in a familiar environment where he has previously achieved great success. 2. **Team Benefits**: The Lightning secure a veteran player who understands the pressures of playoff hockey and can contribute significantly to the team's performance. 3. **Financial Prudence**: The average annual value of $2.33 million is considered a favorable deal for a player of Gourde's caliber, especially as he transitions into the later stages of his career [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/lightning_make_major_roster_announcement_amid_offseason_rumors/s1_17615_42275378]. This contract extension not only solidifies Gourde's future in Tampa but also reinforces the Lightning's commitment to maintaining a competitive roster as they aim for future championships.