2008–09 Tampa Bay Lightning season
The 2008–09 Tampa Bay Lightning season was the 17th season for the franchise in Tampa Bay. After a season of turnover in ownership, management and players, the team had a turbulent regular season. The Lightning failed to qualify for the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Steven Stamkos was the first overall selection in 2008
The Tampa Bay Lightning are a professional ice hockey team based in Tampa, Florida. The Lightning compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference. They play their home games at Amalie Arena in Downtown Tampa.
Phil Esposito fronted an ownership group that was later awarded an NHL franchise in 1992.
The Lightning moved to their present home, the Ice Palace (now Amalie Arena), during the 1996 off-season.
During the 2006–07 season, Vincent Lecavalier broke the then franchise record for most points, and goals in a single season.
Vaclav Prospal with the Lightning in 2007. Prior to the 2007 NHL trade deadline, the Lightning traded Prospal to the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for Alexandre Picard and a conditional draft pick.