Lightning sign Hedman to standard rookie deal

The Tampa Bay Lightning signed defenseman Victor Hedman to a standard, three-year rookie contract on Thursday.

Hedman was the second overall pick in June's entry draft. He was rated as the top European player and one of the top two players overall available in the draft by NHL Central Scouting.

Tampa Bay general manager Brian Lawton said in a statement that the team was happy to get Hedman signed so that the rookie could focus on his development.

Hedman spent the 2008-09 season with MoDo of the Swedish Elite League.