Tampa, FL – The Tampa Bay Lightning signed free agent forward J.T. Brown to a two-year contract on Wednesday.
"We are pleased to announce JT's signing with the Lightning this evening," said Bolts general manager Steve Yzerman. "He has all the top characteristics we look for in a player, including high skill and compete levels. We're glad he chose to play for the Lightning and we look forward to getting him in the lineup as quickly as possible."
Brown totaled 24 goals and 47 points in 39 games for Minnesota-Duluth this season. The 21-year-old Minnesota native was a part of the Bulldogs' 2011 NCAA championship squad last year, when he netted 16 goals and 37 points in 42 games as a freshman.
"I am excited about this opportunity to come to Tampa Bay and play for the Lightning," said Brown. "I see the organization as a great fit for me and although I had a tough decision to make, I definitely feel it was the right one. I can't wait to get started."
The 5-foot-7, 170-pound winger is likely to see action with the Lightning before the end of the year. Tampa, which is a long shot to reach the postseason, has six games remaining starting with Thursday's tilt at New Jersey.
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