What are the key contributions Yanni Gourde is expected to bring back to the Lightning roster? How did the Lightning’s previous trades influence the team’s strategy in reacquiring Gourde? What does Gourde’s leadership experience add to the current team dynamic? How is the Lightning’s position in the standings affecting their playoff preparations? Who are the notable players still contributing to the team’s success?
A few weeks have passed since Yanni Gourde was reacquired by the Tampa Bay Lightning. Over the course of just a few years, the organization and fans have had to say goodbye to some of their most successful and beloved players, guys they went to battle with. In May 2024, the Lightning welcomed back veteran defenseman Ryan McDonagh, a pivotal piece to their Stanley Cup success. The Lightning were never the same after McDonagh was traded to Nashville in 2022, and bringing him back has proven to be invaluable for the Lightning defensively. On March 6, 2025, general manager Julien BriseBois reacquired forward Yanni Gourde in an effort to add more depth and physicality to the Lightning lineup. Gourde, who won two Cups with the Lightning, was heading into the final year of his contract with Seattle and was expected to hit the open market later this summer.
“You always let your mind wander if it could be possible,” Gourde said of returning to Tampa Bay. “My time in Seattle was great, a lot of fun. I am super excited to join (the Lightning) and win some games. It feels surreal.” The trade with Seattle, which also included Gourde’s teammate Oliver Bjorkstrand, resembled a move BriseBois made in 2020, to acquire Blake Coleman from New Jersey and Barclay Goodrow from San Jose in exchange for first-round picks. The Lightning later went on to win the Stanley Cup.
So far, Gourde appears to be the same guy everyone remembers: relentless on the ice and charismatic in the room, all while smiling from ear to ear. “Let’s take the fact that Yanni Gourde played here previously, out of it. We would still have gone after Yanni Gourde,” said Lightning coach Jon Cooper. “He just has a ton of attributes that scream he is a Bolt.” “Obviously, having a history with him and having the success we had, he brings an element that his physical stature doesn’t matter. It’s the size of his heart, which is why he was such a fan favorite here.”
Gourde was originally signed as a free agent with Tampa Bay on March 11, 2014. Over the course of six seasons with the Lightning, he recorded 187 points and won two Stanley Cups. He returned to a system, coach, and organization that he knows well. In past years, there’s been a transition period for some of the Lightning’s newly acquired players at the trade deadline. “There’s definitely been a little bit of an adjustment, but it feels really good. A lot of excitement,” Gourde said of his return. “The first week was a lot of fun being back and seeing the guys.. the fans have been phenomenal to me, it’s been a lot of fun so far.”
As Gourde walked into Amalie Arena just 24 hours after being traded, he seemed to have picked up right where he left off but this time around, he’s bringing extra years of leadership experience with him. “He is extremely vocal on the bench all the time now and it’s really refreshing,” said Cooper. “I don’t remember him being like that, but it is very noticeable and very welcoming.” When Gourde left Tampa in 2021, the leadership group was already well-established. In Seattle, he was tasked with being more of a vocal leader for the brand new expansion team.
Currently, Tampa Bay sits two points out of first place in the Atlantic Division. The upcoming road trip offers the Lightning an opportunity to accumulate the points they need in order to secure the first-place spot. “It’s going to be good to be on the road with the guys and stack a few good games. I think the most important thing is finding our identity, and building on that identity throughout the rest of the year,” Gourde said of their preparation for the playoffs. With Andrei Vasilevskiy, Nikita Kucherov, Brayden Point, Victor Hedman, and Ryan McDonagh all continuing to play at a high level, Gourde returned to a team that is ready and relentless in their pursuit of another Stanley Cup run. This season is proof, you can go home again.
Yanni Gourde is Eager to Contribute in Second Run with the Lightning
As the NHL season approaches, excitement is brewing in the Tampa Bay Lightning camp, especially with the return of Yanni Gourde. Known for his tenacity and heart on the ice, Gourde is eager to make a significant impact in his second stint with the team. After a successful first tenure that culminated in two Stanley Cup victories, he returns with a blend of experience, skill, and an unyielding drive to contribute to the Lightning’s quest for more glory.
A Fond Farewell
Yanni Gourde first burst onto the NHL scene with the Lightning during the 2016-2017 season. He quickly became a fan favorite, not only for his ability to score but also for his work ethic and determination in every shift. Over four seasons, he accumulated a respectable record, collecting 147 points in 252 regular-season games and proving valuable in the playoffs, exemplifying the clutch performances that Tampa Bay fans have come to cherish.
In 2021, however, Gourde became part of the expansion draft when the Seattle Kraken entered the league. His departure was met with mixed emotions – gratitude for his contributions to the Lightning’s back-to-back championships but sadness from a fan base that had adopted him as one of their own. But Gourde never forgot the team that gave him a chance to thrive in the NHL.
The Journey Back
After two successful years with the Kraken, where he continued to demonstrate his skill set and leadership capabilities, Gourde’s return to Lightning was met with enthusiasm. His experience in a different environment only strengthened his resolve. Playing in Seattle allowed him to showcase his ability as a top-six forward and gave him an opportunity to assume a larger leadership role. As he embarks on this new chapter, he carries lessons learned from his time in Seattle, eager to apply them to the Lightning’s already solid roster.
“It was an incredible experience in Seattle,” Gourde stated in a recent interview. “But I always had a special place in my heart for Tampa. Coming back here feels like home, and I’m excited to get back to work with the team and the city.”
Eager to Contribute
Entering the new season, Gourde’s primary focus is to contribute in any way he can. The Lightning roster has seen some changes since his departure, with new faces coming in and some familiar ones moving on. Nevertheless, Gourde’s role remains vital. His ability to play both offensively and defensively makes him a valuable asset, particularly with the Lightning’s dynamic forward lineup.
With the return of Gourde, the Lightning’s depth has only improved. His experience in high-stakes situations is invaluable. He possesses an innate ability to perform when the pressure is on, a trait that will be necessary as the Lightning aims for another Stanley Cup run. Gourde’s versatility allows him to slot into various roles, whether it’s on the power play or penalty kill or as a reliable two-way forward.
“I just want to do what I can to help this team win,” Gourde noted. “Whether it’s scoring goals, providing assists, or being a grit player, I’m ready to embrace whatever it takes.”
Challenges Ahead
While Gourde is excited about his return, he acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. The Lightning have consistently been one of the NHL’s elite teams, but they face fierce competition in the Eastern Conference with teams improving and the league becoming more competitive each season. The pressure to perform is mounting, but for Gourde, it’s a welcome challenge.
He understands that after winning multiple championships, there’s a target on the Lightning’s back, and being part of a team that others want to beat adds to the competitive spirit. Gourde thrives on that intensity, and he is prepared to elevate his game along with his teammates.
Looking Forward
Off the ice, Gourde has also recognized the importance of team chemistry and camaraderie. His familiarity with many players on the roster will undoubtedly ease the transition back into the fold. However, he is also aware of the newer faces that can offer fresh excitement. As he integrates with the updated lineup, building strong relationships in the locker room will be crucial.
As Yanni Gourde prepares to embark on his second journey with the Lightning, he embodies the energy and enthusiasm that the team needs. His passion for the game and his commitment to contributing are qualities that resonate strongly with fans and teammates alike. If the past is any indication, he will be a key player in this new chapter of Lightning history, making both himself and the organization proud as they pursue another shot at the Stanley Cup.
In conclusion, Yanni Gourde is not just back; he’s poised to thrive. With his hunger to contribute, he has a chance to cement his legacy in the annals of Lightning lore once more, as the franchise eyes another championship in what promises to be an exhilarating season ahead.
Yanni Gourde is looking to play a significant role in his second season with the Lightning. After a successful first stint, he is enthusiastic about bringing his skills and experience to help the team achieve its goals. His familiarity with the team’s dynamics and his previous contributions will be key as he aims to make an impact on the ice once again. Gourde’s determination and familiarity with the team’s strategies will likely serve him well as he works to enhance the Lightning’s performance in the upcoming season.