Raw Charge, a Tampa Bay Lightning community

RFA Steve Downie has agreed to terms on two-year, $3.7M deal with Tampa. Cap hit is $1.85M.

Yzerman said he spoke earlier this week to Ranger, who missed most of last season due to undisclosed personal issues. But Yzerman said Ranger "is not prepared to make a decision one way or another at this time." Ranger's agent also declined comment.

Hearing the #TBLightning have at least one, maybe two, signings to announce, but might be own guys instead of UFAs . . . stay tuned

FYI, when Rangers news becomes available, we'll post it as a new story. Feel free to carry your open thread conversations into each new story. I know it may get confusing, but its the best way to keep everyone updated on the latest news. Thanks, Jim

Christian Hanson and Nikolai Kulemin don't qualify for arbitration based on age, 1st contract signing, years pro.

Leafs decline to tender contract to Mitchell. Will be UFA on July 1. talks will continue. Mitchell wants to return, Leafs want him back. If the Leafs had qualified Mitchell with an offer to retain his rights, Mitchell also would have qualified for arbitration. The Leafs didn’t want to take the risk Mitchell would win an arbitration case for more than $1 million. Leafs hoping to get him for significantly less.

"Currently we have one goalie under contract at the NHL level. I know Antero Nittymaki is approaching unrestricted free agency on July 1st, a priority for us will be to have a 2nd goaltender there. I think everything has to be assessed, but you need two NHL experienced goaltenders to start. You have two or three young prospects that were in the American hockey League or in Europe that have potential, I think you have to figure out what to do with that second goaltender position."

You're right, this is going to be one of the most important contracts of my hockey career. That's why we will have to see and decide what it's going to be.