Tarnasky re-signs on three-year contract

The wing is a favorite of the Lightning's GM.

By DAMIAN CRISTODERO
Published June 12, 2007

Nick Tarnasky said it took him a good two months last season to feel comfortable as a rookie. But once he did, the Lightning wing was a reliable supplier of much-needed grit.

As for the five goals and four assists in 77 games that dressed up his 80 penalty minutes, Tarnasky, who on Monday signed a three-year, $1.575-million deal, said they are just a start.

"Ten goals, " he said, "would be a nice second season."

"Ten goals? He's selling himself short, " general manager Jay Feaster said. "That's one of the things we as an organization have to do, get him to understand that he is better than he thinks he is."

Tampa Bay also signed wing Kyle Wanvig, who spent most of his time with AHL Springfield after being acquired in a Feb. 1 deal with the Thrashers.

But Tarnasky, 24, of Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, was the day's most important news. His cap-friendly contract pays $500, 000, $525, 000 and $550, 000. The Lightning also believes it locked up a player with substantial upside beyond a willingness to introduce opponents to the glass or his fists.

"I love him, " Feaster said. "He's one of my favorite guys because he brings so much to the table. He's only scratching the surface of how good he can be."

"The main thing is I want to contribute more offensively, " said Tarnasky, who averaged 6:29 of ice time. "It's nice to see where I ended off last season. It's a good spot to start at."

As for where the 6-foot-2, 233-pounder ends up, Feaster said, "If he ever realizes he belongs in the league and can actually play, he'd bear down and finish those chances and opportunities he created for himself as opposed to being surprised he had them."

[Last modified June 11, 2007, 23:39:06]