The Tampa Bay Lightning have made a significant move by re-signing forward Yanni Gourde to a six-year contract with a salary cap hit of $2.33 million per year. This deal includes a full no-trade clause, further solidifying Gourde's future with the team. Known for his two-way play and versatility, Gourde brings reliable depth to the Lightning's middle-six forwards. His impressive defensive skills and ability to disrupt opposing plays make him a valuable asset, though his finishing touch has been questioned in recent seasons.

In other league news, the Ottawa Senators have locked in young defenseman Tyler Kleven with a two-year contract worth $3.2 million, while the Minnesota Wild re-signed Marcus Johansson for a one-year deal. The Washington Capitals have signed goaltender Garin Bjorklund, and the Seattle Kraken extended Ben Meyers' contract. As teams look to improve their rosters, rumors are swirling about potential moves involving Erik Karlsson from the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Yanni Gourde has re-signed with the Tampa Bay Lightning on a six-year deal worth $13.98 million, equating to an average annual value of $2.33 million. The 33-year-old forward, who was traded back to Tampa Bay from the Seattle Kraken earlier this year, expressed his enthusiasm about continuing with a franchise known for its winning culture.

Last season, Gourde accumulated 31 points, including 14 points after returning to the Lightning. He has significant playoff experience, contributing to two Stanley Cup wins in 2020 and 2021.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have secured Yanni Gourde for the long term, signing the two-time Stanley Cup champion to a six-year contract valued at nearly $14 million. This deal, announced by general manager Julien BriseBois, will see Gourde's cap hit at $2.33 million through the 2030-31 season. After being reacquired from the Seattle Kraken ahead of the trade deadline in March, Gourde's return has been pivotal for the Lightning, providing a blend of experience and tenacity to the roster as they aim for further success.

Gourde, 33, was crucial in the Lightning's back-to-back championships in 2020 and 2021. His presence on the ice is expected to contribute significantly as Tampa Bay continues to build on their recent playoff successes. BriseBois expressed confidence in signing Gourde post-trade, underscoring the team’s investment in retaining key players who can drive their championship aspirations.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have signed forward Yanni Gourde to a six-year contract extension valued at $14 million, ensuring his presence in the lineup through the 2030 season. The 33-year-old was poised to enter free agency after this season, but his re-acquisition from the Seattle Kraken in March solidified his role with the team. In the 2024-25 season, Gourde accumulated 31 points (7 goals, 24 assists) in 57 games across both teams and contributed an assist during five playoff matches. His journey back to the franchise includes overcoming a sports hernia surgery that sidelined him for two months.

With a total of 347 points in 602 career games, Gourde has proven his value to the Lightning, where he spent his first six NHL seasons and secured back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021. His ability to produce points, alongside his previous playoff experience, makes this extension a strategic move for Tampa Bay as they continue their pursuit of another championship.