The NHL's official Facebook account shared their defense projections for each team in the Atlantic Division. Here's who they see playing together for the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2025-26.
First Pairing: Victor Hedman & J.J. Moser
The NHL's account sees Victor Hedman and J.J. Moser being the team's top pairing during the 2025-26 season. This is not surprising, as Hedman and Moser formed strong chemistry this past season when playing together. Furthermore, with Moser being a young defenseman on the rise, playing with a superstar like Hedman has the potential to help him take that next step. Moser has also shown that he has no issues playing the right side, so this pairing just makes sense.
Second Pairing: Ryan McDonagh & Erik Cernak
For the Lightning's second pairing, the NHL's account has Ryan McDonagh playing alongside Erik Cernak. Given the success this pairing had last season, it would be entirely understandable if they played together again in 2025-26. Both blueliners are very dependable defensively, and they certainly make things difficult for opponents when they play together because of it.
Third Pairing: Emil Lilleberg & Darren Raddysh
With Nick Perbix signing with the Nashville Predators this season, the NHL's account has Darren Raddysh playing with Emil Lilleberg on their third pairing. This pairing would have good upside. Lilleberg broke out this past season for the Lightning as a hard-nosed, stay-at-home defenseman, while Raddysh continued to be impactful offensively. Thus, these two could be a nice fit if they play together.
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