The Lightning should consider targeting these two Capitals players leading up to the deadline.
The Lightning should consider targeting these two Capitals players leading up to the deadline.
The Tampa Bay Lightning are set to square off against the Washington Capitals at Amalie Arena tonight (Feb. 22). This is a winnable game for the Lightning, but they absolutely cannot take the Capitals lightly, as it could lead to a loss.
With the Capitals coming to town and being likely sellers at the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, let's discuss a few of their players whom the Lightning should consider targeting.
Max Pacioretty
While adding a defenseman is a priority for the Lightning right now, it appears that they are also looking to add a forward before the deadline passes. They have been linked to wingers Vladimir Tarasenko (Ottawa Senators) and Alexander Barabanov (San Jose Sharks). They are aiming to improve their middle six, and the Capitals offer a strong option in Max Pacioretty.
Pacioretty, 35, has been playing well for the Capitals since returning from his second Achilles injury since the 2022-23 season. In 19 games, he has a goal and 10 points. With that, he has been showing signs of improvement as he continues to settle in, posting two assists over his last two games.
If the Lightning added Pacioretty, he would be a nice fit on the Lightning's second line with Brayden Point and Brandon Hagel. Playing with two stars like them could be the push that Pacioretty needs to get his goal-scoring back up. With that, he would be an obvious fit for their power play.
Pacioretty has a full no-movement clause (NMC), so he will have the final say over whether he gets traded or not. However, if he wants the chance to compete for a Stanley Cup, it's possible that he would at least be open to a move to the Bolts. With salary retained, Tampa Bay would be wise to go for him.
Joel Edmundson
The Lightning are certainly browsing the trade market, and it makes sense, given their current situation. Star defenseman Mikhail Sergachev is out indefinitely, and their depth on the backend could use some improvement. Enter Joel Edmundson.
Edmundson, 30, is having a fairly quiet first season offensively with the Capitals, as he has one goal and three assists. However, he has made an impact with his defensive play and physicality, as he has 42 blocks and 47 hits on the campaign. With the Lightning needing more overall dependability on their blueline, bringing in a player like Edmundson would give them just that.
Edmundson would be a fit virtually anywhere in the Lightning's lineup if acquired, as he confidently plays both sides. With that, he would give the Lightning another option for their penalty kill because of his strong defensive play.
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