Some comments from Lightning General manager Steve Yzerman
On first impressions:
“A majority of the players I’ve seen and I am quite familiar with. A few of the guys that played in the American League last year, it’s my first look at them. I like the organization, the preparation of the coaches. I really haven’t had a chance to go in depth yet. Day one, we got a chance to see some of the younger guys in the scrimmage and they looked pretty good. First day is difficult. Everybody just trying to get their work in and get settled.”
On the fan turnout:
“I like the excitement that the fans showed, and it’s good for the players. It creates an exciting atmosphere for them as well.”
On building this year’s team:
“Every team is in a different situation. They have their own goals and their own idea how they’re going to get there. Guy and his staff want to get to know their players, not just the ones that are on the team already but they want to work with our young players too. There’s a lot of work to be done. Having said that, we want to be a good team this year too and want to do everything we can to pick the best players to make this team the best we can put on the ice.”