Lightning Re-Sign Yanni Gourde to Six-Year Contract

Yanni Gourde, who expressed a strong desire never to leave the Tampa Bay Lightning after contributing to their Stanley Cup victories, now has the potential to conclude his National Hockey League career playing for the team.

Gourde solidified his future on Monday by signing a six-year contract valued at just under $14 million. This new deal keeps him under contract with the Lightning through the 2030-31 season, carrying an annual salary cap hit of $2.33 million.

Speaking via video call with reporters, Gourde emphasized his priority: “I wanted to stay in Tampa for a long time. That was the most significant factor for me—securing term and being able to remain and play in Tampa for what might be the rest of my career. That was the crucial part. I`m incredibly excited that we were able to make this happen.”

Gourde was a key contributor to Tampa Bay`s back-to-back championship wins in 2020 and 2021. Following the second Cup run, Seattle selected Gourde in the subsequent expansion draft, and he went on to play over three seasons for the Kraken.

However, the Lightning reacquired the 33-year-old center just before the March trade deadline this year. At the time of the trade, General Manager Julien BriseBois had conveyed confidence in their ability to sign Gourde to a new contract.

“I was hopeful it could be a possibility, but you truly don`t know until negotiations commence,” Gourde said about his return. “Tampa was always at the top of my list while I was in Seattle, whether it was through another trade, moving elsewhere, or signing as a free agent. When March arrived and I was traded back here, I was absolutely thrilled to return.”

During the past regular season, Gourde missed several weeks due to a sports hernia and subsequent surgery. He also suffered a broken finger in Tampa Bay`s first-round playoff elimination by the reigning champion Florida Panthers. Despite the early exit from the playoffs, Gourde remains confident in the team`s prospects, believing their window to win another Stanley Cup is still wide open.

Reflecting on the recent season`s conclusion, Gourde commented, “Obviously, it was a disappointing end to the season in the first round, but this group was truly excellent, and I have strong belief in them. The primary focus is always on finding ways to win, performing effectively, and being proud to wear that Tampa Bay Lightning jersey. Ultimately, the ultimate goal is to win a championship.”