Rumors: Vinny Is On His Way Out

The Tampa Bay Lightning insist the rumors they are shopping star center Vincent Lecavalier because of financial problems are false. They say they are not shopping him and are not having financial issues.

Still, the rumors, which started on Montreal radio this past week, won't go away because some people believe the Bolts want to cut payroll.

The Lightning ownership group met with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and some Palace Sports & Entertainment people (the main lenders in the $200-million sale) in New York this past week to clear up their financial situation. We're told the league seemed satisfied that all obligations to Palace have been met and will be met going forward.

As for Lecavalier, his no-movement clause doesn't kick in until July 1, when his 11-year, $86.5 million extension begins; so, technically, the Bolts could indeed move him until then. Although it's believed co-owner Oren Koules promised Lecavalier in a face-to-face meeting last summer that he wouldn't move him.

Either way, never a dull moment in Tampa!

Forward Jussi Jokinen, by the way, is definitely on the trade block.

~ zms30

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