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Brian Fever Boyle-ing Over in Tampa

Graphic: Sticks Of Fire @SticksofFireSG

By Tyler Santana

Brian Boyle recently stated in an interview with the Tampa Bay Times that the former Bolt considers a return to Tampa a “huge option.” Boyle, who played nearly 3 seasons in a Lightning uniform was quoted as saying “We love Tampa…If Tampa wanted to work out a deal, that’s definitely a huge option for us.” Boyle’s contract is expiring this season, and while Toronto wants him back and a few other teams will likely pursue the big center, no one has made a big push. It all comes down to Yzerman’s willingness to negotiate a deal with Boyle and how much Brian wants.

Boyle came to the Lightning in the same off-season as Bolts blueliner Anton Stralman, both from a Rangers squad fresh off a Stanley Cup Finals loss to the LA Kings. There is no doubt they saw the potential in this Lightning squad, and I’m sure their former Ranger’s Captain and Lightning trade deadline acquisition Ryan Callahan had a lot to do with their decision. Bolts fans fell in love with Boyle, who used his size and great hands to put up 41 goals and 25 assists in 212 regular season games with the Bolts. Boyle also brought great leadership to the team, especially in the Cup run of 2015, while he used his offensive skills to help the team in the 2016 run to the Eastern Conference Finals. This is why Boyle was dealt to a young Toronto squad vying for the playoffs, he is a leader on and off the ice.

So how likely is it Boyle comes to Tampa? Well, it seems like the biggest part of this will be Yzerman’s willingness to bring back the big forward to help the Top 9. The Boyle family loves the Tampa weather and community, and Boyle knows and has a good relationship with the guys in the Lightning locker room. While many teams will likely look at the big force of a center if he hits the market, it would be wise for Yzerman to speak with Boyle and at least feel out what he’s looking for in a deal. If he is willing to take less than other teams will likely give him to come back to the Lightning, it would be highly beneficial for the team to sign him. Boyle could help provide gritty scoring, leadership, and the Lightning with a key cog for another Cup run.

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June 26th, 2017


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