The Tampa Bay Lightning are likely going to be busy this off-season. While they had a strong regular-season, they struggled in the playoffs and lost to the Florida Panthers in just five games in the first round. With this, it would not be surprising if Lightning GM Julien BriseBois looks to improve the team's roster.
Adding another skilled forward this summer would be great for the Lightning, and the Chicago Blackhawks have a fascinating potential option in Ryan Donato.
Donato will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1 if the Blackhawks do not re-sign him by then. When noting that he is an impactful offensive contributor who can play both down the middle and on the wing, the Lightning should seriously consider making a push for him.
Donato demonstrated this season with Chicago that he can be a major difference-maker when playing at his best. In 80 games, the Massachusetts native set new career highs with 31 goals, 31 assists, and 62 points. With numbers like these, he could be a great addition to Tampa Bay's middle six and power play.
Bringing in a versatile forward like Donato could be good for a Lightning team that needs more secondary offensive production. If the Blackhawks do not agree to a new deal with him and he hits the market, it will be fascinating to see if the Lightning pursue him. The fit looks good on paper.
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