from Damian Cristodero of Lightning Strikes,

Malone and Lecavalier's agent, Kent Hughes, said on Tuesday that they had not heard anything from the team regarding a buyout. But Hughes said, "We understand it's something they might be contemplating. It would be natural to do so."

Added Malone: "It occupies zero of my thoughts. I have no control over it. If they want to buy me out, there's nothing I can do. I would try to prove them wrong. It is what it is."

With more than $60 million in salary cap commitments for 2013-14 and up to five roster spots to fill, Tampa Bay could certainly use the cap relief. Buying out Lecavalier (with seven years, $45 million left on his deal and a $7.727 annual cap hit) and/or the oft-injured Malone (with two, years, $5 million left on his contract and a $4.5 million annual cap hit) certainly would create that.

In Lecavalier's case, it also would relieve Tampa Bay (if Lecavalier retires before the end of his deal) of potential significant penalties under the new salary cap recapture rule.

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