Lightning defenseman Dan Boyle was traded Friday, along with defenseman Brad Lukowich, to the Sharks for offensive defenseman Matt Carle, defensive prospect Ty Wishart (the No. 16 overall pick of the 2006 draft), San Jose's first-round pick in 2009 and a fourth-round pick in 2010.

An official announcement is expected soon.

Carle, 23, the brother of Lightning draft choice David Carle, who suffers from a heart ailment but still was taken with the 203rd overall pick, had two goals, 15 points in 62 games last season, but had 11 goals, 42 points in 2006-07. Wishart, a 6-foot-5, 203-pounder had four goals, 27 points last season for WHL Moose Jaw.

Boyle, who turns 32 on July 12, ends a six-year career with the Lightning during which he morphed from an afterthought into one of the league's best offensive defensemen. Boyle was acquired from the Panthers in January 2002 for a fifth-round draft pick in what was one of the best trades in Lightning history.

But his new six-year, $40-million contract was too lengthy for the new ownership group which also believes his $6.667-million annual paycheck too pricey for a team that before the move, was over the $56.7-million salary cap. Carle begins a four-year, $13.75-million contract that will pay $2.95-million next season.

The Lightning now has two first-round picks and two second-round picks in 2009.