In a pair of moves (other than unveiling next year’s logo and jersey design), the Tampa Bay Lightning have recalled goalie Mike Smith, and re-signed center Nate Thompson to a two-year extension.
Smith had been sent to the Norfolk Admirals on a two-week conditioning stint before the NHL All-Star break (going 0-2-0 with a .900 save % and a 2.56 GAA with the Ads). He rejoins Tampa and becomes a member of backup-by-committee.
Nate Thompson, AKA Textbook and Nate Boucher, being re-signed is an absolute plus. It was just over a year ago that Nate was claimed off waivers from the New York Islanders. Since then he’s been a mainstay cog on the lower lines and has contributed on both ends of the ice. Thompson would have been a restricted free agent after the season. Getting him under contract now is an absolute plus.
