Lightning re-signs defenseman Alex Picard, minor-leaguer Quick

Brant James, Times Staff Writer
In Print: Tuesday, June 3, 2008

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The Lightning re-signed defenseman Alex Picard, a late-season acquisition who impressed coach John Tortorella, and minor-league defenseman Kevin Quick on Monday.

Picard, 22, acquired in a deal that sent Vinny Prospal to the Flyers, had all three of his NHL goals this season and six points in 20 games with the Lightning. He signed a two-year deal worth $1.6-million. Quick signed a two-way contract, meaning he is expected to spend considerable time in the minor leagues.

In a statement underscoring the nature of running a club about to be sold (to a group led by Hollywood producer Oren Koules, pending NHL Board of Governors approval June 18), general manager Jay Feaster said both ownership groups made re-signing Picard a priority.

Picard earned his stripes with his new teammates with less than seven minutes left in a game March 15 at the Forum against the Rangers. He lunged in front of an empty net to take a Jaromir Jagr blast in the chest and the Lightning ahead 2-0. The play helped preserve a win for goaltender Mike Smith, whose clearing pass Jagr had stolen.

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