Earlier this off-season, the Tampa Bay Lightning re-signed forward Gage Goncalves to a two-year contract with an average annual value of $1.2 million. This was an important move for the Lightning to make, as Goncalves emerged as a solid part of their roster this past season.
Goncalves proved that he was ready for the NHL in 2024-25, as he posted eight goals, 12 assists, and 20 points in 60 regular-season games. He also record 18 of his points in the team's final 33 regular-season games, so he significantly improved as the campaign rolled on. He also had a goal and four points in five playoff games for Tampa this spring.
With the way Goncalves finished the year for the Lightning, it is hard not to feel optimistic about his future. Now that he has completed his rookie year and is more adjusted to the NHL level, it would not be surprising in the slightest if he hits another new level next season.
If Goncalves takes another step forward in 2025-26, it would only make the Lightning an even more difficult team to go up against. The potential for him to provide more offense in the Lightning's middle six is there, and it will be intriguing to see if he does just that next season from here.
Lightning Made Good Move Signing Ex-Maple Leafs Forward
The <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning">Tampa Bay Lightning</a> have had a much quieter off-season this year than they did last summer. It is understandable, as they entered this off-season with limited cap space. However, they still improved their overall depth, which was a clear need.
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