If nothing else, the Tampa Bay Lightning’s run of injuries has given some of their prospects a chance to shine at the NHL level. Whether it’s Dominic James, Declan Carlile, Max Crozier, Jack Finley, or Charle-Edouard D’Astous, Lightning fans have seen way more of the organizational depth than they had planned. Tonight, they get to add another name to the list – Maxim Groshev.
The Lightning’s third-round pick in 2020 was called up earlier this year, but with Ryan McDonagh heading to the Injured Reserve list, the Lightning have have decided to give their converted defenseman a chance to show what he can do at the NHL level. During his pre-game meeting with the press, Coach Jon Cooper confirmed that he’ll make his debut on Sunday against Montreal.
Now into the second season of his conversion, the tenth-ranked prospect in the Top 25 Under 25, Groshev has 12 points (1 goal, 11 assists) as defenseman this season. He’s two points off the total he posted in 56 games with Syracuse last season and on pace to match or beat his career-high of 32 points set in 2023-24.
So, what can he bring to the Lightning. For one thing, it’s more speed from the blueline. Groshev was quick for a forward, as a defenseman, he’s electric. He also enjoys lugging the puck up the ice and can be a one-player breakout unit. The 24-year-old is also more than willing to jump up on the play and can often be found hanging out around the front of the opponent’s net.
His decision-making and defensive reads can still use some work, but that’s something that should come with experience. One nice thing about getting some time at the NHL level is that it should help slow the game down at the AHL level and help him process things a little better.
The Lightning returned Steven Santini to Syracuse in a cosponsoring move, leaving the Lightning with just six healthy defenseman for the game tonight. He could stick around for a little while even when/if Erik Cernak returns on the California trip later this week.