With a number of stories breaking in and around Bolts Nation, it’s time for another installment of ‘Lightning News & Notes’ here at Hockey Buzz. Without further ado, let’s get started.
*As announced last night by the National Hockey League, Martin St. Louis has won the Lady Byng Trophy. The award, which is given to the player who demonstrates the most gentlemanly conduct and sportsmanship, cements St. Louis’s reputation as one of the league’s most respected players. St. Louis beat out finalists Patrick Kane and Matt Moulson to take home the trophy for the third time in the last four years.
In addition to the Lady Byng, St. Louis also owns this year's Art Ross Trophy honors. The fact that St. Louis can play such a tenacious game, put up points, and remain virtually penalty-free is something to behold. Simply put, there will never be another Martin St. Louis. With every accolade he’s piled up during his career, he is well on his way to ending up in the Hockey Hall of Fame.
*The Lightning announced that they have signed forward Reto Suri to a one-year, two-way deal. The signing of the Swiss league stud is a low-risk move with nothing but potential upside. In 46 games in the Swiss League, he tallied 14 goals and 11 assists. However, it was during Switzerland’s miracle run at the World Championships that people outside the scouting world really took note of the 24-year-old. In that tournament, he scored five goals and eight points in ten games.
While initial reports indicate that he will play next season in Switzerland, the Lightning have said that they own his rights for three years. The impact that he could have on the Lightning’s prospect system is relatively unknown right now, but signings like this never hurt organizations. Good on Steve Yzerman for attracting yet another young, talented free agent to Tampa Bay.
*Two Lightning defenders endorsed Rick Bowness earlier this week. Mattias Ohlund and Sami Salo, who both spent time with Bowness in Vancouver, spoke of Bowness’s enthusiasm and ability to guide young players. Damian Cristodero’s
piece in the Times had both Salo and Ohlund cite Bowness’s wealth of experience and knowledge as being good for the team. All in all, it’s hard not to view Bowness as a massive asset to the organization and community.
*The Syracuse Crunch will try to stave off elimination tonight, as they take on the Griffins in game five of the best-of-seven series. The Crunch fell behind three games to none before winning game four. It’s hard to imagine the Crunch rallying back and winning the series, but if they do manage to take a victory tonight they would regain home ice advantage. Regardless of what happens in the series, Bolts Nation should be incredibly proud of what that team accomplished. The future in Tampa is bright.
__
Well, that should get you up to date on all things Lightning. Until next time, Bolts Nation, thanks for reading.
Ottawa Senators Blogger • 
Join the Discussion:
»