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Gratton Returns for Another Year
The Tampa Tribune is reporting that the Tampa Bay Lightning have re-signed center Chris Gratton to a one-year, $1.25M contract. With the number of off-season acquisitions made by the Lightning's new ownership group, there was much speculation that Gratton would not be returning. However, a serious knee injury to center Jeff Halpern at the World Championships increased the liklihood of Gratton's return.
“We are extremely excited to have Chris back in the fold for next season,” vice president of hockey operations Brian Lawton said. “He is a true professional that fits in perfectly with our plan to be a tough team to play against. We look forward to having a healthy Chris Gratton on the ice next season.”
With the Gratton signing, the Lightning currently have 16 forwards on one-way contracts.
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Gratton's Return
This is huge, one of Tampa Bays first round draft choices coming back to play as checking line center and a roll player. If things work out, he could be on the best third line in hockey. If he plays with Evgeny Artyukin and Nick Tarnasky as predicted, there won't be many in the league that will want to line up against this mix of tough guys. This will give the Lightning a leg up on grit and it also gives them some protection and blow for the two scoring lines. I for one am glad to see Chris back in black.