"During the past few months, I've had conversations with many people about the changes made around the Lightning since Jeff Vinik assumed ownership. Nearly every facet of the organization, on the ice and off, has taken a 180-degree turn and plenty have taken notice, including fans, national media and neighbors down the street. You know who else has noticed? Players around the league. And that is huge. Tampa Bay is now a desired destination rather than the butt of jokes in player circles. And when choices have to be made - be it on a free-agent level or a trade level - the Lightning are now one of the top teams on that list as opposed to being one of the first crossed off. Sure, success on the ice helps and Tampa Bay is a surprise to be sitting atop the Southeast Division this late in the season. But it's more than that. It's about the atmosphere surrounding the organization and the building of the culture inside the locker room. A recent poll of 318 players conducted by CBC television in Canada in conjunction with the NHLPA listed Tampa Bay as one of the most-desirable teams to play for, behind only Detroit, Chicago, Vancouver and the New York Rangers." Read more: http://www2.tbo.com/content/2011/feb/19/lots-eyes-taking-notice-bolts-turnaround/sports-lightning/
