Yanni Gourde Inks Six-Year Deal to Stay with Lightning, Eyes Third Stanley Cup

Yanni Gourde, a cornerstone of the Tampa Bay Lightning’s back-to-back Stanley Cup triumphs in 2020 and 2021, signed a six-year, $13.98 million contract extension on Monday, securing his future with the team through 2031 at an average annual value of $2.33 million. The 33-year-old forward, who returned to Tampa Bay via a three-team trade on March 5, 2025, could have become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. His decision to stay reflects his belief in the Lightning’s winning culture and championship potential, as Tampa Bay prepares to face the Edmonton Oilers in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final rematch against Florida.

A Homecoming Sealed

Gourde’s return to Tampa Bay began with a blockbuster trade involving the Seattle Kraken and Detroit Red Wings. Acquired alongside Oliver Bjorkstrand, Gourde brought instant energy, posting 14 points (one goal, 13 assists) in 21 regular-season games with the Lightning, ranking third among team skaters in assists and second in hits (50). In the playoffs, he added one assist in five games despite Tampa’s first-round exit to the Florida Panthers. “Extremely happy, honestly,” Gourde said. “The term was a big factor. I’m so excited for the future.”

Originally signed as an undrafted free agent by Tampa Bay on March 10, 2014, Gourde has amassed 347 points (133 goals, 214 assists) in 602 NHL games across the Lightning and Kraken, plus 43 points (20 goals, 23 assists) in 88 playoff games. His trade back to Tampa, celebrated by fans on X as a “welcome home” moment, reunited him with core players like Brayden Point, Nikita Kucherov, and Victor Hedman from the championship years.

Championship Pedigree

Gourde’s playoff resume is a testament to his clutch performance. During Tampa’s 2020 and 2021 Cup runs, he centered the third line with Barclay Goodrow and Blake Coleman, delivering 21 points (13 goals, eight assists) and four game-winning goals in 48 games while averaging 17:58 of ice time. His 47 takeaways led the team, showcasing his relentless two-way play. “He’s an engine,” coach Jon Cooper said, noting Gourde’s vocal leadership and ability to spark the team.

In Seattle, Gourde was a leader for the expansion Kraken, helping them reach the 2023 playoffs with nine assists and 13 points in 14 games, including an overtime winner against Dallas. His 271 games with Seattle yielded 146 points (52 goals, 94 assists), but his heart remained with Tampa. “When you win two championships with a team, it makes this place very special,” Gourde said. “Everybody welcomed me with open arms.”

Role and Impact

Since returning, Gourde has been a versatile weapon, skating on the top line with Point and Kucherov and anchoring the third line as a center. His 14 points, six blocked shots, and nine hits in the playoffs underscored his grit, with X posts praising his “menace” style—forechecking, stick checks, and net-front presence. He also contributed on the power play and penalty kill, averaging 16:03 per game last season. General manager Julien BriseBois lauded his “speed, competitiveness, and fearlessness,” qualities that remain intact at 33.

Gourde’s leadership has evolved since his Seattle stint, where he helped forge the Kraken’s identity as an alternate captain. “I enjoyed trying to build a culture in Seattle,” he said. “I’ve grown as a player and a person.” Cooper noted his increased vocal presence: “He’s extremely vocal, which has brought us really good energy.”

Lightning’s Cup Chase

The Lightning’s signing of Gourde, bypassing free agency, signals their all-in approach for another Cup after three straight first-round exits. With only three pending unrestricted free agents (Luke Glendening, Cam Atkinson, Nick Perbix), Tampa’s roster is primed for stability. Gourde’s $2.33 million AAV is a cost-effective deal, with some X posts speculating a structure including a $6 million base salary and $8 million signing bonus, though unconfirmed.

As Tampa faces a daunting 2025 playoff field, including the Oilers-Panthers Final, Gourde’s experience is invaluable. “The Lightning has always had a winning culture,” he said. “The ultimate goal is to win a championship.” His belief in the group, bolstered by familiar faces and new additions like Bjorkstrand, fuels optimism. “We’re right there again,” Gourde said, eyeing a third Cup.

Conclusion

Yanni Gourde’s six-year extension with the Tampa Bay Lightning cements his return as a pivotal piece in their championship puzzle. His two-way tenacity, playoff heroics, and leadership make him a fan favorite and a catalyst for Tampa’s Cup aspirations. As the Lightning aim to reclaim glory, Gourde’s homecoming—rooted in a winning culture—sets the stage for a thrilling pursuit of a third Stanley Cup.

Source: article by nhl.com, published May 29, 2025.

Achieve More With VSA: Boost your skills with world-class coaches for just $29/hour. Perfect for skaters, hockey players, dancers, and athletes, VSA offers personalized training 24/7, 365 days a year, anywhere in the world.

By Vitalina Andrushchenko, Staff Writer