Lightning Make Major Offseason Moves

The Tampa Bay Lightning have made significant moves in the offseason, highlighted by acquiring Jake Guentzel from the Carolina Hurricanes and signing him to a seven-year, $63 million contract, the largest offseason addition in franchise history. To clear cap space, they traded defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to Utah and forward Tanner Jeannot to Los Angeles, gaining $11 million in cap room. These trades, along with Guentzel's signing, signal a retooling strategy and the possibility of further acquisitions or extensions, including for defenseman Victor Hedman. The Lightning's focus remains on improving defensively, addressing gaps that led to their 22nd ranking in goals allowed last season. Despite these moves, the future of captain Steven Stamkos remains uncertain as he is expected to test free agency.