Ryan Craig Awarded 850,000 in Arbitration

An arbitrator awarded Lightning Center Ryan Craig a one year 850,000 deal on Monday. Craig had been seeking 1.2 million in a deal and the Lightning were looking to pay him 650,000, so it looks to be a victory for both sides. Lightning GM Jay Feester was happy with the result and said that this contract was very reasonable for the this player.

Craig scored 15 goals in 2005-06, which was second most by a rookie in Lightning franchise history. Last season Craig played in 72 games and scored 14 goals and had 13 assists. Craig was on fire in the beginning of the year and helped the Lightning get through the first couple months.

Craig is not going to be one of the All-Stars on the Lightning with Vinny, Marty, and Brad still on the team, but Craig is a huge contributor. Craig does all the dirty work when its needed and he plays his heart out when he is on the ice. Craig will not have the goals like the other guys, but he will give you 100% and do whatever Torts asks him to and that's what the Lightning need. This was a good thing for both sides and we are glad the deal got done.