The Lightning are being linked to Capitals defenseman Joel Edmundson.
The Lightning are being linked to Capitals defenseman Joel Edmundson.
The Tampa Bay Lightning have been connected to several defensemen on the trade market, like Noah Hanifin, Sean Walker, Chris Tanev, and David Savard. However, it appears that another veteran defenseman is starting to get on their radar.
According to The Fourth Period's latest Trade Watch List, the Lightning are now linked to Washington Capitals defenseman Joel Edmundson. Other clubs that they have connected to him include the Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, and Colorado Avalanche.
Edmundson, 30, is a pending UFA who could be on the move over the next week. The Capitals currently do not have a playoff spot and could be sellers because of it. With Edmundson being a steady and hard-hitting veteran defenseman with an affordable $1.75 million cap hit (Montreal Canadiens retain half of his salary), it makes sense that he is generating interest from the Lightning and several other clubs.
Edmundson would be an excellent addition to the Lightning's defensive group. He would fit virtually anywhere in their lineup, too, as he can play both the left side and the right side. Along with that, he would give them another impactful option for their penalty kill because of his defense-first style of play.
If the Lightning strike out on the big-name defenseman that they are connected to, Edmundson would be a nice consolation prize. The Capitals are also unlikely to command much for him.
In 42 games this season with the Capitals, Edmundson has one goal, four assists, and 56 hits.
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