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Lightning re-sign defenseman Lee for two years, $2.3 million

Brian Lee

After getting a fresh start in Tampa Bay, defenseman Brian Lee has decided to stick around.

The 25-year-0ld RFA has agreed to a two-year, $2.3 million extension with the Lightning after receiving his qualifying offer on Monday.

Tampa Bay acquired the former top-10 pick (taken ninth overall in 2005) at February’s trade deadline in exchange for Matt Gilroy. Lee never seemed to be a fit in Ottawa -- he once said he was “shocked and surprised” at a demotion to AHL Binghamton -- but played well in Tampa, registering eight assists in 20 games while averaging over 17 minutes a night.

Last season he recorded career highs in games played (55), assists (15) and points (16), leaving a lasting mark on Montreal forward Aaron Palushaj:

Lee, who goes 6-foot-3, 205 pounds, finished third on the team with 127 hits last year.