Lecavalier reflects on Stanley Cup season as Lightning retire his No. 4

He was the No. 1 pick in the 1998 NHL Draft. He was 18 years old when he made his NHL debut. But it is the No. 4 that
Vincent Lecavalier
will be remembered for, forever.

[Auction: Throwback jerseys worn by Lightning during warmups for Vincent Lecavalier Night]
The former Tampa Bay Lightning forward who helped them win the 2004 Stanley Cup had his No. 4 raised to the rafters at Amalie Arena on Saturday.
Lacavalier meant everything to the Lightning, and the feeling was more than mutual, which he made clear during the ceremony before a 4-3 win against the Los Angeles Kings.
"It always seems like yesterday that I was drafted by the Lightning. I was that tall, very skinny teenager with a long French name that not many people could pronounce," Lecavalier said. "The Lightning became my team that day, but more importantly Tampa became my home. I was young at the time, but so was the Tampa Bay Lightning. I grew up alongside the organization and watched the city of Tampa rally around its hockey team."
The Lightning, celebrating their 25th season, won it all in their 11th season, thanks in part to some inspired play from Lecavalier,
his friend since childhood Brad Richards
, and
Martin St. Louis
, who became the first Lightning player to have his number retired last season (No. 26).

"Marty, you have absolutely nothing to fear or be concerned about tonight," Lecavalier said. "I know your jersey was slightly smaller than mine, but I got confirmation yesterday that the banners in the rafters only came in one size, so we're good. It is truly an honor for my name and number to be next to yours forever."
Though his 14 seasons in Tampa Bay were recognized Saturday, it was the one magical year that sticks out.
"That Stanley Cup brought us something none of us will never forget," Lecavalier said. "The group we had was so special. We had such great chemistry on and off the ice and built friendships that will last a lifetime. I will never forget 2004, they year we brought Lord Stanley to Tampa Bay."

And, after looking back, the former Lightning captain had some thoughts for this season's team, one of the best in the NHL, and their fans who are hoping for another run in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
"Guys, trust me that's nothing better than winning in Tampa. As we celebrate this 25th anniversary, play your hearts out and give it all you've got," Lecavalier said. "My final remarks tonight are for you, the fans. You're such a passionate and loyal group of people. You show up every night and, trust me as a player, I can say it makes a big difference. You pushed me to be a better player on the ice and also a better citizen outside this arena."