Lightning to retire Martin St. Louis' No. 26 on Jan. 13

Martin St. Louis will become the first player in Tampa Bay Lightning history to have his number retired, the team announced Thursday.

The ceremony will take place on Jan 13, 2017, prior to a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Former Lightning head coach John Tortorella, under whom St. Louis won a Stanley Cup in 2004 with Tampa Bay, now coaches Columbus.

"To have my number retired by the Lightning is a tremendous honor and I'd like to thank (team owner) Jeff Vinik and everyone in the organization for recognizing me this way," said St. Louis. "I have many great memories in Tampa Bay, including our great Stanley Cup win, and this night will be extremely special and emotional for my family and me.

"I am happy I will get to share the evening with all the Lightning fans who have always supported me throughout my career - Tampa Bay will always feel like home to me."

The winger retired prior to the 2015-16 NHL season after a stint with the New York Rangers. He ended his playing days in the Big Apple after requesting a trade from the Lightning in 2014.

St. Louis, who briefly served as team captain, played 972 games over 13 seasons with the Lightning, recording 365 goals and 588 assists for 953 points, the most in team history.