The Tampa Bay Lightning have retained one of the key players who was instrumental in their surprising run to this year's Eastern Conference Final, announcing the re-signing of defenseman Eric Brewer to a four year contract, believed worth just under $16 million.

Such a deal would be worth an average salary cap hit of just under $4 million per season, which would be just over $250K less per season from what he was earning on his previous contract.

Taking a bit of a "hometown discount" indicates how much Brewer, 32, was willing to stick with the Lightning, who acquired him from St. Louis in a trade last February.

Although he was only part of the Lightning for a short period of time this past season, he had a significant impact upon their blueline, providing valuable veteran experience and stability.

In 22 games with the Bolts, Brewer had two points and a plus-minus of +5, and in 18 playoff games, had seven points and a plus-minus of -3.

The Lightning still have work ahead, as superstar center Steven Stamkos is a restricted free agent who could become a tempting target for an offer sheet, plus they must also address their goaltending, as Dwayne Roloson and Mike Smith are due to become unrestricted free agents this summer.