Lightning Should Sign Ex-Maple Leafs Goalie

The Lightning could use more goalie depth and should target this veteran because of it.

The Tampa Bay Lightning still have more work to do before the 2024-25 season is here. Newcomer J.J. Moser remains a restricted free agent, and the Lightning still could use more depth throughout their roster. 

One specific area the Lightning should focus on is their goaltending. While they have a star starter in Andrei Vasilevskiy, they could explore adding another backup goalie. In 26 games last season for the Lightning, backup Jonas Johansson posted a .890 SV% and a 3.37 GAA. Due to this, it would not hurt to have an experienced goalie in their system as another option. Free agent Martin Jones stands out as a prime candidate.

Jones, 34, had a solid season as the Toronto Maple Leafs' third-string goalie in 2023-24. In 28 games, he posted an 11-8-1 record, a 2.87 GAA, and a .902 SV%. With numbers like these, he could be a good goalie in a similar role for the Lightning to bring in on a cheap one-year deal.

Jones also has a plethora of experience, appearing in 466 career games over 11 NHL seasons. 

Ultimately, it would not hurt for the Lightning to create some competition for the backup role in training camp. Jones is one of the most notable goalies still available, so he should be considered. At worst, he would be a decent call-up option for the Lightning when injuries arise.