Report: Lightning, Lecavalier agree on nine-year deal

Jun 25, 2008 - 5:52 PM TORONTO (Ticker) -- The Tampa Bay Lightning are moving closer to making Vincent Lecavalier the face of the franchise for the rest of his career.

According to a report from TSN of Canada on Wednesday, the Lightning and Lecavalier have agreed to terms on a nine-year contract extension worth $77 million.

When contacted by PA SportsTicker, the Lightning would not comment on any potential deal.

Selected first overall in 1998, Lecavalier has one year left on his current four-year, $27.5 million contract. The three-time All-Star would have been eligible to become an unrestricted free agent in July 2009.

As stipulated by the collective bargaining agreement, no deal can be announced until July 1.

TSN reported that while some minor details still need to be finalized, Lecavalier's extension will hit the Lightning's salary cap for about $8.5 million annually, and has a "no movement" close.

Lecavalier, 28, helped lead the Lightning to their only Stanley Cup title in 2004. He holds the franchise record for points (602), goals (273) and games played (710).

This past season, Lecavalier registered 40 goals and 92 points, ranking seventh in the league in scoring. He underwent shoulder surgery in mid-April, but is expected to be ready for training camp in September.

It already has been an active offseason for the Lightning under new owners Oren Koules and Len Barrie.

On Tuesday, the Lighting introduced new coach Barry Melrose, who replaced John Tortorella. The club also selected Steve Stamkos with the first overall pick in last week's draft.