Will Nikita Kucherov be the next NHL player to hit 1,000 career points? During the 2024 NHL off-season, the Tampa Bay Lightning [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/] re-acquired defenseman Ryan McDonagh from the Nashville Predators [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/nashville-predators/]. With the Lightning needing to upgrade their top four, it made sense that they brought back McDonagh. Trading for McDonagh has benefitted the Lightning early on this season. The 35-year-old defenseman has appeared in 24 games this season, where he has eight assists, 47 blocks, and a plus-13 rating. McDonagh has also [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/latest-news/lightning-star-defender-can-hit-big-milestone] been trending in the right direction as of late, as he put together a two-assist night and a plus-3 rating in the Bolts' most recent contest against the San Jose Sharks. Ryan McDonagh [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjExMjUyMDE0NzI4ODgxODUz/usatsi_24895570.jpg] Ryan McDonagh While McDonagh has given the Lightning some production through his assists from the point, his incredible defensive play benefits the Bolts the most. The St. Paul, Minnesota native has provided the Lightning's defense far more stability, which is why they missed him so much after they dealt him to the Predators. McDonagh is also right back to being an important leader for the Lightning, as he is one of their alternate captains. Nevertheless, bringing back McDonagh has looked good for the Lightning so far. It will be fascinating to see how he builds on his solid start to the season from here.
