Nick Paul just signed a long term deal with the Tampa Bay Lightning

The Tampa Bay Lightning has just reached an agreement with forward Nick Paul. It is finally a contract of seven seasons and an annual value of a little over $ 3 million. (more than 21 millions in total)

While most observers expected to see three other important players leave the Tampa Bay Lightning this summer, due to the NHL salary cap, DG Julien BriseBois just surprised us.

Let's recall what journalist Kevin Allen said only a few days ago:

Finally, here's one signed.

In fact, not only do they not have room under the salary cap, but they are already in the negative for next year (without Paul's contract), and now they are adding. Will Palat be next? It would be extremely surprising if they make it, but you never know.

It's an announcement that does surprise many, but it's good news for Lightning fans and for Nikita Kucherov and Steven Stamkos (the two all-stars will be very happy to hear that).

Paul, 27, had an impressive 14 points in 21 games with the Lightning this season, and 9 points in 23 playoff games. He was traded at the trade deadline from the Ottawa Sens to Tampa Bay for Mathieu Joseph and a fourth round pick.

More details to follow!