Lightning Should Trade For Penguins Star To Boost Top Six

The Tampa Bay Lightning should be looking to boost their forward group this season.

Bringing in a top-six winger, in particular, would be smart for the Lightning. When looking at trade candidates around the NHL, Pittsburgh Penguins forward Rickard Rakell would be an interesting player for the Lightning to bring in.

Rakell has been creating a lot of chatter in the rumor mill early on this season. It is understandable, as the Penguins are retooling and have a surplus of forwards. Thus, it would make sense if they moved a veteran like Rakell. 

If the Lightning acquired Rakell, he could slot very nicely on their second line with Brandon Hagel and Anthony Cirelli. He would also give the Lightning another clear option to work with on their power play because of his offensive skill.

In 13 games this season with the Penguins, Rakell has recorded three goals and six points. He has had a tough start to the season but has been heating up since. Over his last four games, he has recorded three goals and an assist.

Rakell also posted 24 goals and 48 points in 60 games for Pittsburgh last season. This was after he recorded 35 goals and 70 points in 81 games for the Penguins during the 2024-25 season. With past numbers like these, Rakell could be a very good player for the Lightning to bring in. It will be intriguing to see if Tampa Bay targets him because of it from here.