Joel Armia (© David Kirouac-Imagn Images)The Tampa Bay Lightning's playoff run came to an end on April 30 with their 6-3 loss in Game 5 to the Florida Panthers. It was a tough finish to what was a strong campaign for the Lightning, and they now have some decisions to make with their roster this summer.
When observing the Lightning's roster, one area that they should look to improve is their bottom six. One pending unrestricted free agent who the Lightning should consider targeting this off-season, if he hits the market on July 1, is Montreal Canadiens forward Joel Armia.
Armia, 31, quietly put together a solid season with the Canadiens in 2024-25. In 81 games, the 6-foot-3 forward posted 11 goals, 29 points, and 87 hits. He also recorded two assists and a plus-2 rating in five playoff games. Overall, the 2011 first-round pick once again provided decent secondary offensive production and grit in a bottom-six role this campaign. Those are both things the Lightning's roster needs more of.
If the Lightning signed Armia, he could slot nicely in their bottom six, whether that is on their third or fourth line. In addition, due to his strong defensive play, he would be an obvious choice for their penalty kill if signed.
Ultimately, with the Lightning's bottom six being due for a makeover, a player like Armia should grab their attention. He provides a bit of everything and has a good amount of playoff experience. Thus, he could be a solid depth addition for the Lightning to bring in.
In 586 career NHL games over 11 seasons split between the Buffalo Sabres, Winnipeg Jets, and Canadiens, Armia has 103 goals, 104 assists, 207 points, and 839 hits.
Recent Lightning News
