This Lightning need to keep this forward around.
At the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, the Tampa Bay Lightning acquired Anthony Duclair from the San Jose Sharks. It was an understandable move made by the Lightning, as they needed more scoring.
Fast-forward to now, and it's a move that the Lightning are absolutely not regretting. Duclair has been nothing but stellar since joining the club, posting five goals, 10 points, and a plus-5 rating in 11 games. That is very good production, and the Lightning have been benefitting from it immensely.
Duclair, 28, has found an immediate home in the Lightning's top six and formed excellent chemistry with his new teammates because of it. Due to this and his overall success, the Lightning absolutely need to do what they can to get Duclair re-signed.
The Lightning are entering the offseason with limited cap space, and Steven Stamkos is also a pending UFA. As a result, for the Lightning to keep Duclair, they may need to move some salary out. Two players the Lightning could consider moving to free up cap space to keep Duclair include Tanner Jeannot and Connor Sheary.
Ultimately, since Duclair's arrival, the Lightning have played a lot better, and that is not due to coincidence. He has given them the missing piece to their forward group, and losing him this summer would sting because of it.
Recent Lightning News
Lightning Beat Maple Leafs 4-1
Nikita Kucherov Sets Lightning Franchise Record
Lightning Goalie Out with Lower-Body Injury
Lightning Top Prospect Thriving in AHL