New deal makes Hedman Lightning 'D' foundation

Tampa Bay Lightning coach Guy Boucher has a message for fans who think 20-year old defenseman Victor Hedman will become some kind of dazzling offensive blue-line force someday.

It likely won't happen anytime soon, Boucher said, even though there is some untapped offensive potential in the 6-foot-6, 229-pound Hedman's game.

That eventually will emerge as Hedman matures, but the biggest reason the Lightning signed Hedman to a lucrative five-year contract extension Wednesday -- reportedly worth $4 million a season -- is because they're bullish on his all-round potential.