The Tampa Bay Lightning made a wise move by re-acquiring this top defender.
The Tampa Bay Lightning made a wise move by re-acquiring this top defender.
The Tampa Bay Lightning have had a busy offseason. After a quick first-round loss to the Florida Panthers this postseason, GM Julien BriseBois worked hard to make big-time changes to their group.
One of BriseBois' most notable moves was re-acquiring Ryan McDonagh (along with a 2024 fourth-round pick) from the Nashville Predators in exchange for a 2025 second-round pick and a 2024 seventh-round pick. The Lightning missed him on their blueline these last two seasons, so bringing him back has the potential to be significant.
McDonagh, 35, is coming off a strong season with the Predators, recording three goals, 32 points, and a plus-19 rating in 74 games. His 32 points were the most the St. Paul, Minnesota native has had since the 2019-20 season, so he is returning to Tampa Bay hot.
However, while McDonagh is coming off a solid offensive season, there are also other positive reasons for the Lightning to bring him back. The 14-year NHL veteran is still incredibly dependable defensively, and the Lightning should greatly benefit from his return. In addition, he will once again provide the Lightning with more leadership, which is certainly a nice bonus.
McDonagh is expected to have a home in the Lightning's top four this season and should see plenty on their penalty kill. Thus, he will again be a very important part of their blueline as they look to maintain their contender status.
It will be very interesting to see what kind of season McDonagh puts together from here, but he certainly has the potential to be a big addition to the Lightning's roster.
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