Artyukhin reunion

So, it looks like the Lightning will make every effort during the summer to sign Evgeny Artyukhin. A fan favorite because of the way he hits, the big Russian has spent this season with Yaroslavl Lokomotiv in the Russian Super League. GM Jay Feaster was very upset when Artyukhin, saying he wanted to hone his skills in a situation where he would get more playing time, turned down one-way contracts of one and two years.

Anyway, it looks as if both sides want to get together, and the Lightning could sure use the physical presence. Arty has had a tough go in Russia too where he began the season on the forth line and drove referees crazy with his physical play.

I'll have more on this in tomorrow's paper, but I know I liked watching Arty play. Bet you can't wait to see him back with the Lightning either. It sounds like it might happen in 2007-08.