|TAMPA — When Yanni Gourde was dealt to the Lightning at the NHL trade deadline, he felt like he was returning home.

Gourde, selected by Seattle in the 2021 expansion draft, had emerged as a leader during his time with the Kraken, leading a fledgling team to the playoffs in its second year of existence.

But it was in Tampa where he had his best hockey memories, centering the invaluable third line on back-to-back Stanley Cup winners.

Now, he will remain with the Lightning.

Forgoing an opportunity to test free agency next month, Gourde on Monday signed a six-year contract with an average annual value of $2.33 million.

Gourde, 33, said at the end of the season he wanted to remain in Tampa and believed the Lightning can recapture their postseason success after three straight first-rou

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