Lecavalier scored 29 goals and 67 points in 77 games in 2008-09, a significant step back from the 108 and 92 points he recorded in the previous two seasons. Part of his decline can be traced back to him missing training camp while recovery from shoulder surgery. He also spent most of the season under the heat of intense trade rumors and was playing through wrist pain that eventually led to season-ending surgery in April. However, Lecavalier is determined to put all that behind him and get ready for the 2009-10 season. "I hope it's going to be the best summer of my career," he said. "I'm determined to be in the best shape of my life. I plan on having a great season."