Yanni Gourde Returns Home as Lightning Lock Him in with Six-Year Deal
So, let’s talk about Yanni Gourde — yeah, the same gritty, high-motor forward we all remember lifting the Stanley Cup twice with Tampa Bay just a few years ago. Well, he’s back — and this time, it’s not just a rental. The Tampa Bay Lightning have officially signed Gourde to a six-year contract extension with an average annual value of $2.33 million. Honestly, this feels like a full-circle moment.
Here’s the thing — Gourde might not be the flashiest name in the NHL, but he’s the kind of player every championship team needs. Think about it: relentless on the forecheck, smart in both ends of the ice, and a guy who never gives up on a play. Since being re-acquired by Tampa in a trade with Seattle and Detroit back in March, he’s already started making an impact again — 14 points in 21 games, 13 of those being assists, plus a +4 rating. And let’s not forget his physical edge — he logged 50 hits in that short stint, second-most on the team.
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- Yanni Gourde Returns to Tampa Bay with a Six-Year Commitment
Now at 33, some might raise an eyebrow at the term — six years is a commitment. But here's what makes this deal stand out: Gourde took a pay cut. He’s coming off a $5.17 million cap hit and dropped down to $2.33 million just to stay in Tampa. That’s loyalty. That’s a guy who believes in the organization, in the culture, and in his own ability to contribute long-term. He’s not just looking for a final payday — he’s looking to help win again.
And man, what a journey it’s been. Gourde went undrafted. He bounced around in the minors. Even did time in the ECHL. But once Tampa gave him a real shot, he made the most of it — 310 regular season games, 80 goals, and 187 points from 2015 to 2021. In the playoffs? He was clutch. 16 goals and 29 points in 69 games during that three-year stretch when Tampa was a powerhouse. Oh, and remember his shorthanded plays? Always came through in high-pressure moments.
After the 2021 Expansion Draft sent him to Seattle, Gourde kept grinding — 271 games there, over 140 points, helped guide the Kraken to their first playoff appearance and led the team in points during that run. But now, he’s where he belongs — back in blue and white, in Amalie Arena, chasing more hardware.
This deal is more than just numbers. It’s a nod to Gourde’s resilience, his character, and his value to the locker room. It’s about continuity, experience, and heart. For Tampa Bay, it’s a win — they get a proven veteran, a leader, and a known asset who’s already deeply embedded in their winning DNA.
Bottom line: Yanni Gourde is back. And the Bolts just got tougher to play against again.
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