This defenseman could be an interesting addition for the Lightning.
The Tampa Bay Lightning should be open to the possibility of adding another defenseman to their roster before the start of the 2026-27 season to improve their depth.
When looking at the defensemen still available in free agency, one blueliner who could make sense for the Lightning to take a chance on is Nick Blankenburg.
Despite having a career year split between the Nashville Predators and Colorado Avalanche in 2025-26, Blankenburg remains unsigned. In 61 games, he set new career highs with eight goals, 16 assists, and 24 points. With numbers like these, he could provide the Lightning with a bit more offensive production from the point when called upon.
Blankenburg would also provide the Lightning with another NHL-caliber defenseman. With how often injuries occur during the season, NHL clubs always need defensive depth. Due to this, there would be no harm in the Lightning taking a gamble on Blankenburg with a one-year, prove-it deal.
It will be interesting to see if the Lightning end up making a push for Blankenburg from here. The fit looks pretty strong on paper.
In 176 games over five NHL seasons, Blankenburg has posted 18 goals, 40 assists, and 58 points.
