According to a post by TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, defenseman Zach Bogosian was projected to be headed to the Tampa Bay Lightning as an unrestricted free agent. LeBrun posted the tweet late Sunday evening and social media lit up with foll-up tweets suggest the deal was close to done.
Details of whatever contract Bogosian might sign were not released but it’s not expected the value would be much more than NHL league minimum. From there, he’ll move onto to become a UFA at season’s end and he can try to get on with another team (or re-sign with Tampa) for more money in the summer.
Bogosian Deal Became Official
Before LeBrun had noted something was close, it was reported by Darren Dreger of TSN:
Assuming Bogosian clears unconditional waivers today, I expect he will wait until Monday to decide where he wants to play for the remainder of the season. Toronto, Pittsburgh, Carolina and Winnipeg are among the strong contenders.
Interesting that Tampa was not noted as a possible option. And, not to suggest Dreger was the only one not to think of it, no one really had Tampa listed as a favorite here. It didn’t take long for things to change. Dreger confirmed Tampa had added Bogosian few minutes later.
Dreger added Tampa Bay came on strong in their pursuit of Bogosian, edging the likes of Pittsburgh, Carolina and Colorado who were also among the suitors.
Bogosian cleared unconditional waivers on Feb. 22 with the purpose of terminating the remainder of his seven-year, $36 million contract that was set to expire at the end of the season.
The defenceman has a goal and four assists in 19 games this season.
The Lightning Aren’t Joking Around
The Lightning are now a bit closer to becoming even more of a powerhouse than they already are. Bogosian isn’t likely a difference-maker but he’s certainly a serviceable NHL’er and if Tampa acquires him, enough of an addition to potentially get the Boston Bruins thinking about making a move.
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