The Lightning can forget about this potential target.
The Tampa Bay Lightning were viewed as a potential landing spot for Chris Kreider when he hit the free agent market after mutually terminating his contract with the Anaheim Ducks.
It is understandable, as they could use another impactful scorer to solidify their top nine.
However, the thought of Kreider signing with the Lightning can be forgotten.
This is because the Montreal Canadiens have won the Kreider sweepstakes, signing him to a one-year contract for the 2026-27 season. Seeing Kreider sign with the Canadiens is tough, as the Habs are one of the Lightning's division rivals. Now, the Lightning will be facing the big winger often.
Although Kreider is no longer an option for the Lightning, there are other free agents still available who could boost Tampa Bay's roster if signed. Among the top UFA forwards left are Vladimir Tarasenko, Michael Bunting, and Patrik Laine.
Even so, Kreider would have been a solid late-summer pickup for the Lightning. Alas, the Lightning will need to explore their options elsewhere now.
