After striking out on Chris Tanev, the Lightning still have a few other defensemen to consider.

The Tampa Bay Lightning were one of the many teams connected to Chris Tanev before his trade to the Dallas Stars. While missing out on him is tough news for the Lightning, they still have several other options worth adding. Let's discuss them. 

Noah Hanifin, Calgary Flames 

Noah Hanifin is, of course, the Lightning's top trade target. He is easily the best defenseman on the trade market, and he is generating a plethora of interest because of it. 

Frank Seravalli recently reported that Hanifin's preferred destination is the Lightning, so they would be wise to take advantage of it. He would be a perfect fit in their top four and work on both their special-team units. 

Sean Walker & Nick Seeler, Philadelphia Flyers

While Hanifin would be, without a doubt, the Lightning's biggest prize, they also would benefit by adding Sean Walker and/or Nick Seeler of the Philadelphia Flyers. Both have been connected to the Lightning and would boost their defense significantly. 

Walker and Seeler have found plenty of success together on Philadelphia's second pairing and could do the same if dealt to Tampa. The Lightning would need to get creative to fit them both in, but it is something that they need to consider seriously. 

Matt Dumba, Arizona Coyotes 

Matt Dumba is another trade target who has been connected to the Lightning. It makes sense, as the Lightning need help on the right side. If acquired, Dumba could work on their second pairing and help improve their penalty kill. 

With Dumba being on an expiring deal, it is quite possible that the Coyotes would be open to retaining half of his salary if it resulted in them landing more in return. That would make adding him easier for the Lightning.  

David Savard, Montreal Canadiens

Old friend David Savard is another notable defenseman who has been linked to the Lightning over the last few weeks. It makes sense, as he was impactful during the club's 2021 Stanley Cup run. Similar to Dumba, he would be an obvious fit for Tampa Bay's second pairing if acquired. 

However, unlike the other defensemen listed above, Savard is under contract beyond this season, as his deal does not expire until after the 2024-25 campaign. Thus, he would be guaranteed to be more than a rental if acquired, which may be challenging given Tampa Bay's salary cap situation. 

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