Lightning Signs Yanni Gourde to Six-Year Contract

TAMPA BAY, Fla. – The Tampa Bay Lightning have signed forward Yanni Gourde to a six-year contract worth an average annual value of $2.33 million, vice president and general manager Julien BriseBois announced today.

Gourde, 33, was re-acquired by the Lightning on March 5, 2025, as part of a trade with the Detroit Red Wings and Seattle Kraken. After joining the Lightning, he tallied 13 assists and 14 points in just 21 games.

During his brief time with the Bolts last season, Gourde ranked third on the team for assists and was second in hits with 50. He also played in all five playoff games for Tampa Bay, ranking second among forwards for blocked shots (6) and sixth for hits (9).

A back-to-back Stanley Cup champion with the Lightning in 2020 and 2021, Gourde was originally undrafted. He was signed by Tampa Bay as a free agent on March 10, 2014, and made his NHL debut with the team on December 15, 2015.

Over six seasons with the Lightning from 2015 to 2021, Gourde played in 310 games, scoring 80 goals and 187 points. His playoff performance was notable as well, with 16 goals and 29 points recorded in 69 games.

After being selected by Seattle in the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft, Gourde contributed significantly to the Kraken, guiding them to their first playoff appearance in 2023. He led the team in various playoff statistics.

“You always let your mind wonder if it could be possible,” Gourde said about returning to the Lightning. “But yeah, this is awesome. I’m super excited to join this team and win some games.”