Lightning Part Ways With Vincent Lecavalier

Vincent Lecavalier’s time with the Tampa Bay Lightning is finally up. The 33-year-old has been bought out by the team at a costly price.

Lecavalier had seven years and $45 million left on his contract before the Lightning made the decision to part ways. Through the terms of his buy-out, Lecavalier will receive $24.67 million from Tampa Bay over the next 14 years. He will also receive an $8 million bonus.

During his time with the Lightning, Lecavalier led the team as the captain and even brought home the hardware. The expansion franchise won it’s first Stanley Cup in 2004 and “Vinny” played a vital role throughout the playoffs.

“Vinny has been a significant reason for many of our past successes, including the 2004 Stanley Cup, and his contributions to the community are immeasurable,” Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman said in a statement. “The Lightning organization is indebted to Vinny; we thank him for all he has done here and we wish him well as he moves forward.”

Vincent Lecavalier was a fan favorite while taking the ice for Tampa Bay, but he is now free to sign with another NHL team starting July 5.

“After much internal deliberation, we believe this will prove to be a pivotal move for us as we strive to achieve our long term goal of competing at the highest level, year-in, year-out,” Yzerman added. “The economics and structure of the CBA are necessitating this decision and we at the Lightning are excited at the newly created opportunities this presents to us.”

Lecavalier’s numbers on the ice have taken a tumble over the past few years and his team fell apart in 2013, which more than likely led to the team’s decision. He’s spent each of his 14 seasons in the NHL in Tampa Bay.

In 39 games last season, he finished with 32 points off 10 goals and 22 assists. Do you think Vincent Lecavalier would be a great signing this offseason after his buy-out with the Lightning?

[Image via Kaatiya]