Wed, Jun 13, 2007 at 12:00am

GRATTON BACK IN TAMPA

The Tampa Bay Lightning acquired center Chris Gratton from the Florida Panthers for a conditional second-round draft pick in either 2007 or 2008.

What does it give the Tampa Bay Lightning
This will be Gratton's third stint with the Bolts. He's expected to take over the checking-line center duties. Gratton should settle in behind Vincent Lecavalier and Brad Richards, and ahead of captain Tim Taylor on the depth chart. His best offensive days are behind him, but Gratton is still serviceable.

What does it give the Florida Panthers
The Panthers received good value for Gratton, who at times was forced to play wing in South Florida due to the team's center depth. The Panthers will have the option of accepting Tampa Bay's second rounder later this month at the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, or wait until next year. Either way, it's a good deal for the Cats.

Fantasy impact