Let's dive into the second half of the Lightning’s Top 25 Under 25 for 2025, where we take a closer look at the promising talents still making waves this season. Despite some roster changes, there are still ten exciting players to discuss.
13. Dyllan Gill - Orlando Solar Bears - ECHL
In his debut season, Gill is finding his rhythm with the Solar Bears, notching 2 goals and 9 assists over 46 games. With the Lightning's affiliation proving beneficial, a call-up to Syracuse could be on the horizon if they need reinforcements.
12. Roman Schmidt - Traded
Schmidt's journey with the Lightning concluded with a trade to Philadelphia, bringing Ethan Samson into the fold.
11. Ethan Czata - Niagara IceDogs - OHL
Czata is lighting it up with 22 goals and 21 assists in 52 games. If the NHL and CHL proceed with their agreement to allow a 19-year-old on AHL rosters, Czata could find himself with the Crunch, ready for a new challenge.
10. Max Groshev - Syracuse Crunch - AHL
Groshev is making strides in his transition to defense, playing 42 games with 3 goals and 14 assists. His NHL debut is a testament to his development, and his puck-moving skills are a standout feature, making him a candidate for more NHL action soon.
9. Niko Huuhtanen - Waived
After parting ways with the Lightning, Huuhtanen has moved to EHC Biel-Bienne in Switzerland, where he's started to find his footing with a goal and an assist in 7 games.
8. Jakob Pelletier - Syracuse Crunch - AHL
Pelletier is living up to expectations, posting 20 goals and 33 assists in 45 games. His performance has earned him brief stints with the Lightning, and he’s making a strong case for a permanent spot next season.
7. Ethan Gauthier - Syracuse Crunch - AHL
Gauthier's first professional season has been a learning experience, with injuries impacting his consistency. Despite this, he’s shown glimpses of his two-way potential, tallying 7 goals and 7 assists in 39 games.
6. Dylan Duke - Syracuse Crunch - AHL
Duke is having a breakout year with 25 goals, 16 of which came on the power play. His knack for positioning and work ethic in front of the net should translate well to the NHL.
5. Sam O’Reilly - Kitchener Rangers - OHL
O’Reilly has seamlessly transitioned to the Kitchener Rangers, recording 24 goals and 28 assists in 47 games. With his offensive prowess, he's poised to join the Crunch after his OHL season wraps up.
4. Jack Finley - Claimed on Waivers
Finley’s move to St. Louis during the Olympic break adds intrigue to his season. With the Blues managing injuries, his role could fluctuate, but his future remains promising.
3. Emil Lilleberg - Tampa Bay Lightning - NHL
Lilleberg’s season has been hampered by injuries, limiting him to 32 games. As he returns to health, the challenge will be finding his place among a crowded left-side defense.
2. Gage Goncalves - Tampa Bay Lightning - NHL
Goncalves has experienced ups and downs, recording 6 goals and 11 assists in 51 games. His ability to reclaim a spot alongside Brayden Point and Nikita Kucherov could be key as the season progresses.
1. Conor Geekie - Syracuse Crunch - NHL
Geekie is thriving with the Crunch, amassing 13 goals and 36 assists in 45 games. His reassignment from the NHL to Syracuse has allowed him to dominate in key situations, gaining valuable experience that could pave the way for his return to the Lightning.
These players are carving out their paths, and each brings something unique to the table. Keep an eye on them as they continue to develop and make their mark.