The Tampa Bay Lightning are on the hunt to bolster their blue line as the trade deadline looms, with a keen eye on strengthening the right side of their defense. General Manager Julien BriseBois is not just looking for a quick fix; he’s after a player who can contribute both now and in the future. This means targeting someone with a contract that extends beyond this season or a player they can control for a while.
In the short term, shoring up the defense is crucial for the Lightning, especially as they aim to dominate the Eastern Conference. Despite solid performances from their call-ups, injuries have been a persistent issue.
Maxwell Crozier, a promising third-pairing option, is sidelined until the playoffs due to core muscle surgery. Meanwhile, Victor Hedman has been limited to just 21 games this season and recently sustained another injury during the Olympics.
The right side of the defense is particularly thin. Beyond Darren Raddysh, Erik Černák, and Crozier, the Lightning lack depth.
Raddysh, in particular, is a key focus. He’s having a breakout year, ranking sixth in scoring among defensemen with 52 points in 49 games and leading the team in ice time.
However, as a pending unrestricted free agent, his future with Tampa is uncertain. While AFP Analytics suggests a potential four-year extension, Raddysh might explore free agency to maximize his earnings.
With Černák as the only long-term top-four piece on the right side and veterans like Hedman and Ryan McDonagh needing to reduce their minutes, the Lightning’s need for a strong right-shot defenseman is clear. On the left, J.J. Moser is emerging as a top-pairing talent, but the right side remains a concern until Raddysh’s situation is resolved.
If the Lightning avoid the rental market, their options narrow. Teams are typically reluctant to trade cost-controlled right-shot defensemen with top-four potential. Names like Dougie Hamilton and Justin Faulk have surfaced, but both come with high costs and limited contract terms.
A younger, intriguing option is Braden Schneider from the Rangers. At 24, Schneider is a pending restricted free agent, giving Tampa some control if they secure him.
He’s logging significant minutes for New York and excels in shutdown roles. With Černák handling heavy defensive duties in Tampa, Schneider might find opportunities to contribute more offensively.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Lightning’s strategy will be pivotal in shaping their defensive core for both the immediate playoff push and the years ahead.