Toronto, ON (Best E Casino) - The Tampa Bay Lightning and forward Vincent Lecavalier have reportedly agreed to a nine-year deal.

TSN of Canada reported on its website Wednesday that the three-time All-Star agreed to a contract extension that will pay him $77 million. He was entering the final year of a four-year, $27.5 million deal.

As stipulated by the collective bargaining agreement, no deal can be announced until July 1.

The first overall pick of the 1998 draft, Lecavalier holds the franchise record in goals (273), points (602) and games played (710). He captured the Rocket Richard Trophy in 2006-07 for leading the league in goals with 52.

In the 2004 playoffs, Lecavalier helped guide the team to a Stanley Cup title with nine goals and seven assists during the postseason run.

It already has been an active offseason for the Lightning under new owners Oren Koules and Len Barrie, who were introduced on Monday.

On Tuesday, the Lighting introduced new coach Barry Melrose, who replaced John Tortorella. The club also selected Steve Stamkos with the first overall pick last Friday in the 2008 NHL Entry draft.

Also, on Wednesday, the team announced that Bill Barber will resign, effective July 1, as the director of player personnel and that goaltender Marc Denis' contract was bought out.