After failing to earn a roster spot in training camp, Cristoval "Boo" Nieves got the next-best thing Tuesday, signing a one-year, two-way contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning that will allow him to play in both the NHL and AHL this season.

The Baldwinsville native had signed a tryout contract with the Lightning after leaving the NY Rangers' organization as an unrestricted free agent this off-season. Nieves had spent his first four pro seasons playing with the Rangers and their AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack.

The 59th overall pick of the 2012 NHL Draft, Nieves was hoping to make the regular season roster of the reigning Stanley Cup champions, but was not able to earn a spot in the team's truncated 10-day training camp. He'll now suit up for the AHL team in Syracuse, just down the road from his hometown, in hopes of earning a call-up to the parent club this season.

The Crunch are expected to open the 2021 AHL season on February 5, but no schedules have been released as of yet.