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Tampa Bay Lightning close to re-signing defenseman Eric Brewer

Boston Bruins v Tampa Bay Lightning - Game Four

TAMPA, FL - MAY 21: Eric Brewer #2 of the Tampa Bay Lightning controls the puck in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Bruins during the 2011 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at St Pete Times Forum on May 21, 2011 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)

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The Tampa Bay Lightning are inching closer to re-signing veteran defensemen Eric Brewer to an extension. Brewer was a mid-season acquisition for the Lightning when he was acquired from the St. Louis Blues in February for a 3rd round pick and Brock Beukeboom. He must have enjoyed his four months with the organization if he’s considering a deal before becoming an unrestricted free agent on July 1. Likewise, the Lightning must have liked what they saw down the stretch of the regular season and during their playoff run to the Eastern Conference Finals.

According to both Lightning GM Steve Yzerman and Brewer’s agent Don Meehan, negotiations are going well and both sides are optimistic. Erik Erlendsson of The Tampa Tribune has quotes from both sides:

“Our discussions have been most productive and we are optimistic in relation to concluding a contract with Erik and the Tampa Bay Lightning,’’ Meehan said in an email.

Yesterday, Yzerman said this: “With Eric Brewer, I’ve met with Newport Sports and we’ve had some discussions and I’m encouraged with how discussions have gone.”


He signed his last contract before the 2007-08 season for $17 million spread out over 4 seasons. It’s likely he’ll sign a contract with similar a similar $4.25 million cap hit per season. The 32-year-old would be lucky to get another 4-year deal, but $4 million per season is certainly within the realm of possibility.

For the Lightning, the move will help solidify their top six defensemen going into next season. As it stands today (without Brewer signed), Tampa Bay only has Victor Hedman, Mattias Ohlund, Pavel Kubina, and Brett Clark signed for next season on the blueline. Brewer would give their defensive corps another veteran presence—not to mention a veteran leader in the locker room as well.

From the Brewer’s perspective, Tampa Bay looks to be a perfect fit for the former 5th overall pick. He’s an ideal match for a contender as a 2nd or 3rd pairing defenseman that provides great depth. If a team is looking for a blueliner to bring 25 minutes a game and 30-40 points throughout the season, then Brewer isn’t the kind of player they’re looking for anymore. Some will tell you he never was that kind of player—even though the Blues and Oilers paid him as though he was. Bottom line: he’s never going to be the type of player you trade Chris Pronger for. Too soon?

Instead of being forced to carry the load on the ice, Brewer will be able to play his well-rounded game that has made him a valuable NHL player for more than a decade. He’ll net a few goals as a second pairing power play performer, he’ll kill penalties, and he’ll provide the type of leadership in the locker room that made him a captain in St. Louis.

When used property, he’s the type of player ever team could use on their team. Sounds like the Lightning already know it.