The NHL's official Facebook account shared what they think the Tampa Bay Lightning's top six will be heading into the 2025-26 season, and it looks strong on paper.
For the Lightning's first line, the NHL's account sees Brayden Point centering Jake Guentzel and Nikita Kucherov. This is entirely understandable, as these three are elite offensive players and have had plenty of success playing together. If this is the trio that the Lightning ends up going with on their first line, it would certainly make things incredibly difficult for their opponents.
As for the Lightning's second line, the NHL's account has Anthony Cirelli as Tampa Bay's center, with Brandon Hagel and Gage Goncalves as his wingers. Cirelli being the club's 2C is a no-brainer, and Hagel will undoubtedly have a place in Tampa Bay's top six after his monster 2024-25 season. Yet, Goncalves is an intriguing player from this top-six projection, as he is a young forward looking to break out. However, with how well he finished the year, it is fair to wonder if he could take another step forward if used on the second line.
One who did not make the NHL account's projected top six for the Lightning is Oliver Bjorkstrand. While this is the case, he certainly should challenge Goncalves for the Lightning's second-line right wing spot.
New Lightning Forward Should Not Be Ignored
The <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning">Tampa Bay Lightning</a> have had a fairly quiet off-season, but they did add to their depth a bit.