As the anticipation builds for the Tampa Bay Lightning’s regular season opener against the Ottawa Senators on October 9, fans can’t help but reflect on the club’s storied history—particularly through the lens of player numbers. With just 37 days until the season kicks off, it’s fitting to delve into the players who have donned the number 37 throughout the Lightning’s history.
The significance of the number extends beyond mere digits; it represents contributions, history, and the legacy left by those who wore it. In total, seven players have sported No. 37 for the Lightning, but one player stands head and shoulders above the rest: Yanni Gourde.
The Origins of Number 37 in Lightning History
The first player to wear No. 37 was Steve Maltais, who joined the Lightning roster in their inaugural season of 1992-93 after being selected from the Quebec Nordiques in the NHL Expansion Draft. Maltais played 63 games that season, tallying a career-best 20 points, which included seven goals and 13 assists. However, his time with the Lightning was short-lived, as he moved on to the Detroit Red Wings in 1993-94 and returned to the NHL with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2000-01. His brief but impactful tenure marked the beginning of a rich history for the number.
Subsequent Players and Their Contributions
Following Maltais, Dmitry Afanasenkov became the next notable name to wear No. 37 during the 2000-01 season. A third-round pick in 1998, Afanasenkov contributed modestly with one goal and one assist that season. Over five seasons with the Lightning, he amassed 39 points in 186 games, also playing a role in the 2004 Stanley Cup championship.
Brad Lukowich brought more success to the number across two stints with the Lightning in the early years of the 2000s. Playing from 2002-2004 and rejoining in 2007-2008, Lukowich participated in 208 games and notched 41 points, including a Stanley Cup victory in 2004. His strong two-way game and defensive prowess made him an essential asset during a pivotal era for the team.
Another significant figure was goaltender Olaf Kolzig, best known for his remarkable 16-season career with the Washington Capitals. Kolzig spent his final NHL season with the Lightning in 2008-09, where he faced challenges but maintained a legacy that cemented him as one of the greats of his time.
Mark Parrish had a brief stint with the Lightning in the 2009-10 season, showcasing a well-rounded career in the NHL. Though not a standout during his time with the Lightning, he ended his career with impressive numbers across 722 games.
Kristers Gudlevskis is another name worth mentioning, albeit for a short period in the 2013-14 season. Playing only one game while wearing No. 37, he was impressive, saving 36 of 38 shots—though he later transitioned to No. 50.
Yanni Gourde: The Standard Bearer of No. 37
While the history of No. 37 features contributions from several players, Yanni Gourde has undeniably made it his own. Becoming a standout for the Lightning since his debut in 2017, Gourde’s tenacity and skill have captivated fans and teammates alike. Over his two stints with the Lightning, he has recorded 201 points in 331 games—an achievement that includes two Stanley Cup victories.
Gourde’s playing style is characterized by his relentless hustle and commitment to both offensive and defensive responsibilities. Known for his ability to win battles in the corners and his impressive cycling skills, he has solidified his position as a key player within the Lightning’s lineup.
With Gourde recently re-signing for six additional years, fans can look forward not just to the upcoming season but also to the enduring legacy he is likely to create while wearing No. 37. His importance to the team stretches beyond just statistics; it is embodied in his leadership and work ethic, elements that resonate with Tampa Bay’s culture both on and off the ice.
Impact on the Team Culture
The number 37 has become more than just a jersey number; it reflects the ethos of the Lightning. Each player who has worn it has contributed to a collective identity and the standard of excellence that the franchise has sought to achieve. Gourde, in particular, embodies the resilience and competitive spirit that symbolizes the team’s approach to the game.
In reflection, as the Lightning prepare for their season opener, the players who have worn No. 37 remind us of the franchise’s evolution and growth. Each player’s journey adds depth to the team’s narrative, making the excitement of opening night that much more profound. With the season on the horizon, fans can take pride not only in the achievements of the past but also in the future, led by Gourde and what promises to be an exhilarating year ahead for the Lightning.
The history of No. 37 has become an emblem of perseverance and achievement, one that invites new and old fans alike to embrace the Tampa Bay Lightning as they embark on another thrilling chapter in their storied history. As the days count down to opening night, anticipation grows not just for the games ahead, but also for the moments that will define this season and the legacy of the players who continue to wear the numbers with pride.
