Steve Yzerman & Guy Boucher Photo by Linda Hamilton

-Another big win for the boys in the Lightning system. Tampa’s ECHL affiliate Florida Everblades defeated the Las Vegas Wranglers 3-2 to capture their first Kelly Cup.

Congratulations to the squad and the fans who waited 14 years to see their team hoist the trophy in triumph!

- According to his agent, the Lightning are serious contenders to secure the services of Swiss right winger Damien Brunner.

“We have a lot of work to do between now and his decision,” Neil Sheehy said. “But I know Damien was very, very impressed with (Tampa Bay general manager) Steve Yzerman. … They have met and there’s interest on both sides.” (Quote Source: Tampa Bay Times)

Nothing is definite yet and there are sure to be other teams coming to court Brunner after his stand out performance at the World Championships. This is one to watch though.

-Yesterday morning GM Steve Yzerman appeared on 620 WADE “The Sports Animal” here in Tampa and basically refuted the rumors that the Bolts would not be pursuing a big name goalie via trade this summer.

During the interview, he said that his ultimate goal was to find a Hall of Fame netminder, but that kind of search will take time.  Most GMs would want to obtain a top tier goalie via the draft or free agency since it would cost a whole lot less.

In spite of Yzerman’s words, this doesn’t completely close the door on acquiring Luongo. He is, after all, a Jedi master when it comes to negotiating. It could all just be a ruse.

-Per the Tampa Bay Times, Steven Stamkos is recovering well following surgery on his left shoulder about a month ago.  the league’s leading scorer sat out of the World Championships in order to recuperate.

He expects to begin his summer training regiment in the Toronto area with former Lightning player Gary Roberts.