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The Tampa Bay Lightning could be making waves among NHL trade rumors as this year’s deadline approaches on the horizon.
The latest round of NHL trade rumors could feature the Tampa Bay Lightning making a big splash.
After a so-so start to their season, the Lightning have come back to grab a strong foothold on a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. That situation has prompted GM Julien BriseBois to make a push to add to the club’s roster at this year’s trade deadline.
BriseBois revealed the Lightning’s deadline strategy amid ongoing NHL trade rumors. The notable GM stated during an interview on NHL Network that his approach to this year’s deadline hasn’t really diverged from previous seasons.
“Most years, we approach (the deadline) like we are approaching it now. There are very few opportunities over the course of a calendar year where you can add talent to your team.”
BriseBois confirmed that the NHL trade deadline and the period comprising the NHL Draft and opening of free agency are the occasions most conducive to adding significant talent to the team. As such, there’s no doubting that the Lightning will be a major part of NHL trade rumors moving forward.
However, the Lightning, like most contending teams, have limited cap space, a depleted farm system, and a lack of draft capital. But that situation won’t likely stop BriseBois from making waves at the upcoming trade deadline.
Improvement Remains Lightning’s Priority at Deadline
The Lightning have remained remarkably consistent after finding their groove this season. The club has managed to weather major injuries while scoring just enough to stay ahead of the pack.
But that situation won’t preclude the team from looking to upgrade any way it can. That’s why fans shouldn’t be surprised to find the Lightning square in the middle of NHL trade rumors.
As BriseBois stated, the goal is to improve any way the team can.
“We’re looking at things through the same prism we usually do. If there’s an opportunity for us to add a player that will make us better now and beyond, that would be our priority.”
That comment suggests that there isn’t a single target in mind. The club will be casting a wider net, looking to find talent wherever possible. As for specific names, the Lightning have yet to narrow down their sights, at least for the moment.
NHL Trade Rumors Suggest Lightning Dangling Top Prospects
Despite the Lightning lacking high-end talent, the club is willing to part with its top prospects. As the Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta noted, the Lightning could be willing to part with top prospects, including Sam O’Reilly.
O’Reilly found his way into NHL trade rumors earlier this season. The Edmonton Oilers traded the 19-year-old former first-round pick to the Tampa Bay Lightning for fellow top prospect Isaac Howard.
Howard has found his way into the Oilers’ lineup, while O’Reilly remains as an overager in the OHL this season. But it’s been O’Reilly’s name that popped up in NHL trade rumors, as he is the Lightning’s most valuable trade chip.
O’Reilly could fetch the Lightning an upgrade in their forward core. The club seems all right on the back end. So, the main target could be a middle-six scoring winger, much like last season. At last year’s deadline, the Bolts added Yanni Gourde and Oliver Bjorkstrand from the Seattle Kraken.
So, if NHL trade rumors prove correct, the Lightning could be looking to add another name or two in a similar vein.
Nestor Quixtan Seasoned NHL analyst and baseball writer focused on covering clubs across each league with news, analysis, and insights. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Nestor’s singular experiences and background have enabled him to bring a different take on the sports world as a whole. Nestor’s fondness for baseball and hockey set the tone for his love and passion for writing about sports. More about Nestor Quixtan
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