Jeff Vinik to purchase Lightning

TAMPA -- Officials with the Tampa Bay Lightning say there’s a plan in place for Tampa Bay Sports and Entertainment to purchase the NHL team, which is currently owned by OK Hockey.

In addition to the team itself, the sale also includes the company which operates the St. Pete Times Forum and two lots adjacent to the arena.

Jeff Vinik owns Tampa Bay Sports and Entertainment and is a minority owner of the Boston Red Sox. In a statement released today he says that buying the Lightning is a dream come true.

“I’ve been an avid hockey fan my whole life and I pledge to our fans that I will work my hardest to build the Lightning into a world class organization both on and off the ice,” Vinik said. “I hope to bring a high level of excitement and intensity back to Lightning hockey, with a goal of having the team consistently compete for the Stanley Cup.”

The deal still has to be approved by the National Hockey League Board of Governors. Neither company is commenting on how much was paid for the team.