After announcing his retirement this past season, Vincent Lecavalier, the franchise’s all time leader in goals and games played, will be honored by the team at Amalie Arena before an Oct. 18 game against Florida.
Lecavalier, drafted first overall by the Lightning in 1998, was a model of excellence throughout his 14-year tenure in Tampa Bay. Among his many accolades throughout his time with the Bolts, Lecavalier was at his best in a 2006-07 that saw him take home the Rocket Richard trophy as the league’s top goal scorer (52) and finish with a franchise record 108 points.
But what Lecavalier will be most remembered for to many in Tampa will be his emergence as one of the game’s best all-around talents during the Lightning’s ride to the 2004 Stanley Cup.
One third of Tampa Bay’s three-headed future alongside Brad Richards and Martin St. Louis, Lecavalier came through with nine goals and 16 points in 23 games en route to Tampa Bay’s first and only Stanley Cup in team history. But Lecavalier also provided an iconic moment, one still recalled by hockey purists, in a Cup Final fight with fellow superstar, Calgary Flames winger Jarome Iginla.
It was a moment that captured what Lecavalier, an ultimate competitor, brought to the Lightning.
It was the only time Lecavalier and the Bolts made it to the elusive fourth round during his tenure in town, and his run ultimately ended with a buyout following the 2012-13 season.
From there, Lecavalier went to Philadelphia, where he recorded 28 goals and 58 points in an at times frustrating 133 games with the Flyers, but was always welcomed back to Tampa with open arms.
Lecavalier finished his career with the Los Angeles Kings this past season, tallying 10 goals and 17 points in 42 games with the Kings, including one goal and an assist in five postseason games.
At 949 points, the 36-year-old Lecavalier ranks 94th on the league’s all-time scoring list.
It is unclear as of right now whether or not this 'honor' will include raising Lecavalier's No. 4 to the rafters.
Tampa Bay Lightning Blogger • 
Join the Discussion:
»