Former Tampa Bay Lightning [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning] forward Tyler Motte has landed a professional tryout (PTO) with one of the team's biggest rivals. According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, the Florida Panthers [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/florida-panthers] have signed Motte to a PTO. Motte is among the veteran unrestricted free agents (UFAs) still looking for a contract for the 2025-26 season. However, after landing this PTO with the Panthers, he is now another step closer to potentially landing one. Motte was a member of the Lightning during the 2023-24 season, where he primarily played in their bottom six. In 69 games with the Bolts that campaign, he recorded six goals, nine points, 41 takeaways, 97 hits, and a minus-8 rating. Motte's time with the Lightning ended this past off-season when he signed with the Detroit Red Wings [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings]. In 55 games with the Original Six club in 2024-25, he recorded four goals, nine points, and 72 hits. It will now be interesting to see if Motte can successfully earn a contract from the Panthers for the season through his PTO from here. RECENT LIGHTNING NEWS NHL Rumors: 5 Lightning PTO Targets To Consider [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/latest-news/nhl-rumors-5-lightning-pto-targets-to-consider] Lightning's Potential Lines For Next Season [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/latest-news/lightning-s-potential-lines-for-next-season] Ex-Lightning Center Signs PTO With New Team [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/latest-news/ex-lightning-center-lands-pto-with-new-team] J.J Moser discusses first season with the Lightning [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/latest-news/j-j-moser-discusses-first-season-with-the-lightning-at-nhl-european-media-player-tour]
