Dylan Duke (© Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images)Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Dylan Duke is one of the team's most promising prospects. The 2021 fourth-round pick showed off his potential during his three-year stint with the University of Michigan from 2021-22 to 2023-24, posting 53 goals and 98 points in 122 games. However, his final season with the school was his best, as he set career highs with 26 goals, 23 assists, and 49 points in 41 games.
Following his big 2023-24 campaign with Michigan, Duke signed his entry-level contract with the Lightning. Fast-forward to today, and it is hard to find much to complain about Duke's first full professional season.
Duke emerged as a key part of the Syracuse Crunch's roster this season, posting 20 goals, 40 points, and a plus-11 rating in 62 games. With this, he did not look out of place and proved that he can be a difference-maker at the AHL level.
Duke's excellent play also allowed him to receive his first NHL call-up to the Lightning's roster this campaign, too. He undoubtedly took advantage of it, as he scored his first NHL goal in his debut on Feb. 8 against the Detroit Red Wings. Naturally, this only created more optimism surrounding him.
While Duke only played in two games for the Lightning this season, he certainly should get more chances on the NHL roster next campaign. It has been a strong first professional season for the Strongsville, Ohio native, and it will be fun to see how he continues to build on his game from here.
Recent Lightning News
