Lightning Sign Nate Thompson to Two-Year Contract Extension

The Tampa Bay Lightning announced on Tuesday that they have signed left wing Nate Thompson to a two-year contract extension worth $1.8 million. The deal will pay him $950,000 for the 2011-12 season and $850,000 for the 2012-13 season. He would have been a restricted free agent this summer. In 51 games so far this season, he has seven goals and 10 assists for 17 points. Not a bad depth signing for the Lightning, as Thompson plays with lots of energy and works very hard every shift on the ice. He's also good on the penalty kill and very versatile in the lineup, as he can play both center and on the wing. He should be a good checking line option for Tampa Bay over the next two years.