Lightning Forward Likely Finished in Tampa
The Lightning might have no choice but to let this forward walk.
© Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports - Lightning Forward Likely Finished in TampaThe Tampa Bay Lightning are gearing up for a busy offseason. They already got it started off in a big way, acquiring Ryan McDonagh from the Nashville Predators.
However, after adding McDonagh, the Lightning now have just over $5 million of cap space. This puts them in a challenging spot, as they still must re-sign Steven Stamkos. As a result, one of their current players could be dealt soon.
With the Lightning needing to free up cap space to make re-signing Stamkos possible, it seems likely that the club won't be able to bring back fellow free agent Anthony Duclair. After his excellent play following his move to the Lightning, he has set himself for a nice payday this summer.
Duclair, 28, had 24 goals and 42 points in 73 regular-season games split between the San Jose Sharks and Lightning. However, he was electric following his move to Tampa, posting eight goals and 15 points in 17 games.
With how well Duclair fit into the Lightning's top six, it is highly likely that they would want to keep him around. However, with Stamkos being a bigger priority and the club currently having very limited cap space, it will be incredibly challenging to get Duclair signed to a new contract this offseason.
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