One of the games greatest passers will be on the ice during the Tampa Bay Lightning's training camp, helping coach the power play. Adam Oates, sixth all time with 1,079 assists, will participate as "a favor to me," coach Rick Tocchet said. Officially Adding Oates to the staff could come later. Perhaps this is kind of an audition.

For now, Tocchet said, his former teammate with the Flyers, Bruins and Capitals will be working for free.

"I asked him to come for a couple of weeks of training camp," Tocchet said Thursday. "I love his philosophy on the power play, and he has a great mind. He said he'd love to come in for a couple of weeks and relay some points. I think he can really help the guys."

Tampa Bay's power play was mediocre last season, finishing 19th in the league at 17.8 percent. It was even worse at home, where it was tied for 22nd at 16.2 percent.

"I just think the importance of the power play is so big, and he's one of the best in the business," Tocchet said. "He will really help, even if it's a short-term thing."

The Lightning and Oates actually have been talking about some sort of partnership since at least June, when Tocchet first talked about hiring his old friend.