It’s that time of year where writers from all over take a swing at predicting the somewhat unpredictable. This week, ESPN released their Power Rankings of all 32 teams heading into 2025-26. In addition to the latest 1-32 poll, they included a top storyline for each team.
The Lightning landed at No. 10, right behind the Washington Capitals. ESPN had them at 9 heading into last year's playoffs.
The Bolts had a relatively quiet offseason, extending forwards Yanni Gourde and Gage Goncalves and adding a few younger depth pieces.
Gourde, who was set to become a free agent, signed a six-year contract with an average annual value of $2.33 million. This will likely keep him in Tampa for the remainder of his career.
"I love Tampa. I want to stay in Tampa for a long time so that was the biggest thing for me, getting some term and being able to stay and play in Tampa for the remaining years of my career," said Gourde.
Goncalves, who was on his way to becoming a RFA signed a two-year contract worth $1.2 million AAV.
Goncalves made his Stanley Cup Playoff debut with the Lightning back in April, in their first-round series against the Florida Panthers. The 24-year old played in all five playoff games, finishing with four points (1-3—4), tied with Nikita Kucherov for the second-most points on the team. He also ranked second among Lightning forwards for hits with 15.
The ESPN panel sees the Lightning putting together another steady season, but mentioned they may be forced to meet the Panthers again early on into the playoffs.
“Another long playoff run is possible, though they'll likely have to defeat their rivals from South Florida at some point on that road.”
The Panthers topped ESPN’s power rankings, after winning back-to-back Stanley Cups the past two years. They also signed pending free agents: Aaron Ekblad, Sam Bennett and Brad Marchand.
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