Flyers ship Gagne to Lightning

The Philadelphia Flyers traded left wing Simon Gagne to Tampa Bay for defenseman Matt Walker and a fourth round draft selection, both of the NHL teams said Monday.

Gagne waived his no-trade clause in order to leave the team where he has played all 664 of his career NHL games.

New Tampa Bay general manager Steve Yzerman gains a proven offensive weapon.

Since he was drafted by Philadelphia in the first round in 1998 Gagne has scored 259 goals. He has two seasons with 40 or more goals.

"In adding Simon to the Lightning, we acquire a very talented player that will play alongside our top forwards," Yzerman said in a statement. "With his combination of speed and skill we are excited to have him with us and grateful he was willing to waive his no movement clause."

Gagne, who is eligible to become a free agent after next season, said he was excited by the move.

"I'm looking at this opportunity as a new challenge and a new start. Tampa Bay was a team I was more than willing to waive my no-move clause."

Walker has played in 304 career regular season games over seven seasons. Also drafted in 1998, in the third round, Walker said he s "always wanted to play in Philly".

He had two goals, three assists and 90 penalty minutes in 66 games last season with the Lightning.