Vinik praises Yzerman's handling of St. Louis, Lecavalier

Lightning owner Jeff Vinik spoke with The Tampa Tribune about a variety of topics, including the playoffs and the business success of the team this year.

Vinik was asked if he was worried about taking a public relations hit from the loss of both Vinny Lecavalier and Marty St. Louis?

“Yes," Vinik answered. "Frankly, the directive I’ve given Steve Yzerman is to create a world-class hockey culture and team here. And along the way you are going to have to make some very difficult decisions and sometimes unpopular decisions. I think our fans have done a tremendous job of understanding the reasons we’ve had to make these difficult decisions. They are both not only great players but just amazing members of this community. And two different situations, and Steve, as always, with 100 percent integrity handled the situations very well. And we think it’s also going to work out very well for our team long term."

On the subject of Ryan Malone, who was arrested on charges of cocaine possession and driving under the influence on the weekend, Vinik said: “I have not talked to Ryan. Obviously I’m disappointed to hear the news, but what I’m most concerned about is Ryan the person and that he has the best path ahead of him.’’

Source: Erik Erlendsson, Tampa Tribune