Lightning boosts season ticket rates

TAMPA — The Lightning announced Thursday that season tickets for next season will increase by an average of 7 percent.

The team, coming off its run to the Stanley Cup final, said it has the third-lowest average ticket price in the NHL ($49.33) in 2015-16, and no season ticket member will see an increase of more than $6 per game per seat for 2016-17, with the exception of the Chase Club members.

Chief executive officer Steve Griggs said every home game this season has sold out heading into tonight's game against Nashville at Amalie Arena. And Griggs added that owner Jeff Vinik continues to spend at or near the NHL's salary cap, with the Lightning reaching the playoffs the past two seasons.

"Our goal with the 2016-17 renewal program is to continue offering our members affordable tickets, the best entertainment value and in-game experience, world-class service, and of course, a hockey team that they can be proud of on and off the ice," Griggs said.

Team Marketing Report's Fan Cost Index lists the Lightning as the third most affordable NHL experience for a family of four to attend. Nearly 30 percent of all seats at Amalie Arena will be priced at $30 or less for season ticket members next season, with an entry level price point of $21 per game. Tickets will increase by a range of 1.8 percent to 10.5 percent, depending on seat location. For example, the terrace end tickets bump up 10.5 percent from $21 to $23 for full season ticket members. The most expensive ticket, Lexus Lounge Row A, will go up 1.8 percent from $280 to $285 per game. For a more detailed breakdown, go to tampabaylightning.com.

For 2016 playoff tickets, season ticket members will be able to use the "Cheer Now, Pay Later" program, which allows members to pay for just games played at the conclusion of each round, rather than paying up front for all potential playoff games at one time. The team said there will be no additions to its current policy on re-selling season tickets.

Contact Joe Smith at joesmith@tampabay.com. Follow @TBTimes_JSmith.