Gary Roberts announces retirement

Lightning forward Gary Roberts announced his retirement today after 21 seasons in the NHL. Roberts, 42, was acquired by the Lightning from Pittsburgh this past summer. He had four goals, seven points and 27 penalty minutes in 30 games this season.

His final game took place March 1 at Calgary, where Roberts began his career in 1986 and where he helped the Flames win the 1989 Stanley Cup.

“I am extremely grateful for having had the opportunity to be a part of this great league,'' Roberts said in a news release issued by the Lightning. "The game has been so good to me and I will always be thankful for having had so many years doing what I loved to do.”

Roberts skates with team at practice; Kolzig back

With all the injury woes the Lightning has dealt with, the sight of veteran Gary Roberts at practice with the team Friday was likely a welcomed surprise. He skated with the team a bit beforehand, and stayed on the ice for a little while.

Roberts has missed 25 games with a bad left elbow. Interim coach Rick Tocchet didn't have a update on his status, whether it was day-to-day, or still week-to-week. Mark Recchi didn't practice, due to what the team labeled body maintenance, but isn't expected to miss Saturday's game...

In other news, goaltender Olie Kolzig was back and practiced (and Karri Ramo was reassigned to Norfolk). Though Kolzig appears ready to go, Tocchet said Mike Smith will likely get the lions-share of the work until the All-Star berak, meaning he'll probably start Monday against his former team, the Stars.

-- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com