Lightning sign D Carle to 6 year, $33 million deal

[Ravin]

Free agent defenceman Matt Carle has signed a six-year, $33 million deal with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The 27-year-old Carle was one of the most sought-after free agents. In 82 games with the Philadelphia Flyers last year, Carle netted four goals and 38 points.

This will be Carle's second stint with the Lightning, he played 12 games for them during the 2008-2009 season.

The Alaska native has spent the past four seasons in Philly.

He was originally selected by the San Jose Sharks in the second round, 47th overall of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft and played parts of three seasons in San Jose.

In 471 career games, Carle has 32 goals and 202 points. He is a career plus-55.

Hey Tampa, how about a fucking goalie that isn't past a mid-life crisis? Their defence is good though, got to give them that.

[Guest]

Garrison is such a better deal than this. I also agree with Ravin, the Lightning need a goalie in the worst way. They could still trade for Luongo, but I think the market on him isn't going to be much and the Canucks may just retain him.

[wingsfan77]

He's a decent enough defensemen, very steady and almost never misses games. However he is also VERY turnover prone and rarely gets his shots on net (mostly due to them getting blocked.)

[Obst]

Carle ranked 25th in the league this regular season in giveaways, with 55. Ranking behind guys like Subban (88 giveaways), Yandle (75), Chara (68), Wideman (68), Doughty (65), Girardi (61).

Giveaways that have led directly to goals: Subban 8, Phaneuf 8, Carlson 6, Chara 6, Karlsson 6, Yandle 5, Burns 4, Keith 4, Doughty 3, Carle 3.

So I wouldn't say Carle really has a turnover problem. Any puck moving defenseman who gets a major amount of ice time is going to turnover the puck once and a while, but Carle's were not costly at all. I think it's a good signing by the Lightning but I wouldn't of been willing to give him 6 years.

[wingsfan77]

Fair enough, I guess it just seemed worse having to watch him every game.

[Guest]

Fair enough, I guess it just seemed worse having to watch him every game.

Just too many years and dollars is all. Poor market combined with a substantial cap increase will do that.