July 4, 2008 | 1:24am ET
Boyle decision coming today TheFourthPeriod.com
Yesterday, the Lightning officially asked Dan Boyle to waive his no-trade clause. Today, the St. Petersburg Times reports he'll make his decision.
"We've all been in communication, and everybody understands everybody's position," Boyle's agent, George Bazos, told the paper. "Dan is going to think about things, and discussions will continue further to find the best option for Dan."
Boyle, who turns 32 on July 12, signed a six-year, $40 million contract extension in February.
On Tuesday, when the free agent market opened, the Lightning told Bazos they would not trade his client. Plans certainly appear to have changed.
"We're working with Dan trying to make this work for both sides," owner Len Barrie told the Times. "The tough side of hockey is the business side. Dan has been a great player for the organization, but we have to make tough decisions. The good news for Dan is he has an opportunity to get into some great positions."
Boyle admitted that the past few days have been "pretty tough."
"I signed that deal to stay in Tampa," Boyle told the Times. "It's not about the money all the time. I'm a pretty loyal guy. I'm a Tampa guy. That's who helped me turn my career around and gave me a real chance and a real opportunity. That's where I want to be."
The San Jose Sharks were believed to be interested in Boyle, but they added Rob Blake yesterday and it's uncertain if they're still in the mix.
According to the Times, the Vancouver Canucks and Atlanta Thrashers are also interested, while the Ottawa Senators, who were eyeing Boyle, appear out of the running.
