On the Move: Brad Lukowich

Brad Lukowich will join reluctant-to-waive-his-trade-clause teammate Dan Boyle as the two defensemen were bundled as a package bound for the San Jose Sharks while the Tampa Bay Lightning received in return defensemen Matt Carle and Ty Wishart along with San Jose's 1st Round pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft and their 4th Round pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. After days of refusing to waiver on his no trade clause, Tampa finally found a team up to Boyle's expectations. The Lightning were looking to shed some major payroll following a heavy round of Free Agent signings and Boyle's $6.67 million per year contract should take a load off.

Lukowich being shipping to the Sharks is a side note to what has turned out to be the most intriguing trade of the offseason, so far. Originally drafted in the 4th Round, 90th overall of the 1994 NHL Entry Draft, Lukowich has played for the Stars, Lightning, Isles and Devils. Despite being drafted by the Orange and Blue, Luko actually started his pro-career in Dallas during the 1997-98 season, eventually winding his way to Long Island for the majority of the 2005-06 season. Lukowich played 59 injury-shortened games this season for Tampa Bay (his second tour of duty with the Lightning) notching 7 points on 1 goal and 6 assists. On his career, Luko has played in 582 games netting 22 goals and adding 81 assists for 103 points. He has a career +33 rating and has amassed 353 penalty minutes. Lukowich has also suited up for 65 playoff games managing 6 points on 1 goal and 5 assists. We here at FIW wish Brad the best with his new team.