The Tampa Bay Lightning will be a team to watch this off-season. After a quick post-season exit, it is going to be fascinating to see what kind of changes the Bolts make to their roster.
One area the Lightning should consider improving is their top nine. It would not hurt for them to add more depth offensive production, and veteran forward James van Riemsdyk could provide that.
After landing a one-year contract, $900,000 with the Columbus Blue Jackets in September, van Riemsdyk put together a strong season with the Metropolitan Division club. In 71 games this campaign with the Blue Jackets, he posted 16 goals and 36 points. This is after he had 11 goals and 27 assists in 71 contests for the Boston Bruins in 2023-24 campaign. With numbers like these, he could give the Lightning solid secondary scoring.
van Riemsdyk could slot nicely on the Lightning's third line if signed, especially when noting that he can play both left and right wing. In addition, due to his solid net-front presence ability, he would offer the Lightning another useful option for their power play.
On a one-year affordable deal, van Riemsdyk could be a good player for the Lightning to bring in. At a minimum, he would give their bottom six a bit more offense and give them another veteran to help mentor their younger players.
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