Victor Hedman speaks with reporters postgame The Tampa Bay Lightning [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/] are currently third in the Atlantic Division with a 23-16-3 record. Due to this, the expectation is that they will be buyers [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/latest-news/lightning-should-make-big-trade-for-flyers-star] at the 2025 NHL trade deadline. When looking at the Lightning's roster, it is apparent that they should focus on improving their blueline. This is especially true with J.J. Moser out for a good chunk of time. Due to this, one player they consider making a major push for is Columbus Blue Jackets blueliner Ivan Provorov. Provorov, 28, has been generating chatter in the rumor mill, and it is easy to understand why. The left-shot defender is a pending unrestricted free agent on a rebuilding Columbus club, so he stands out as a prime rental candidate [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/philadelphia-flyers/latest-news/former-flyers-star-is-prime-trade-candidate]. Ivan Provorov [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjEyMTU4NjA1Mjg0MDkxODgw/usatsi_25137229.jpg] Ivan Provorov If the Lightning acquired Provorov, he could fit anywhere on their blueline, including the top pairing with Victor Hedman. This is because Provorov can play both sides. In addition, since he produces offensively and is solid defensively, he could work on both their power play and penalty kill if acquired. Provorov is having a solid year with the Blue Jackets. In 44 games, he has three goals, 19 points, and a plus-3 rating. It will be interesting to see if the Lightning pursue Provorov. The team needs a top-four defenseman who provides a bit of everything, so he should be considered.
