The Tampa Bay Lightning are on a roll, having lost just once in regulation since the start of 2026. Tied at the top of the Eastern Conference with the Carolina Hurricanes, the Bolts have their sights set on a return to the Stanley Cup Final. With the NHL trade deadline approaching, Lightning GM Julien BriseBois is expected to be proactive in strengthening the roster.
One area BriseBois might focus on is the right side of the defense. According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, this is a spot the Lightning are keen on bolstering.
BriseBois has indicated that any moves made will not just be for the current season but will also aim to benefit the team long-term. This suggests he's looking for players with term or those who can be controlled beyond this season.
Currently, the Lightning's top trio on defense when healthy includes Erik Cernak, Darren Raddysh, and Maxwell Crozier. Cernak is the only one locked in as a long-term piece.
Raddysh will hit free agency this summer, and Crozier is sidelined until at least the playoffs due to core muscle surgery. It’s clear why BriseBois would target the right side of the blue line for reinforcement.
So, who might the Bolts consider? One potential target is Braden Schneider from the New York Rangers.
At 24, Schneider is a pending restricted free agent, giving the Lightning some flexibility if a deal doesn’t pan out. If he can focus on an offensive role in the third pairing, Schneider could be a great fit for Tampa Bay.
There are also pricier veterans like Dougie Hamilton from the New Jersey Devils on the market. However, salary cap constraints might make such a move challenging.
BriseBois will likely prioritize finding younger, more affordable upgrades. Regardless of the path he chooses, the GM is determined to assemble a roster capable of capturing the Stanley Cup.