The Tampa Bay Lightning are in early-stage negotiations to secure the services of Alexis Lafrenière, a winger with immense potential, though he has yet to fully break out in the NHL. Lafrenière, the former first overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, started the season with promise but has struggled since, posting just five goals and nine assists with a minus-15 rating. His performance has fallen short of expectations since signing his seven-year, $52.15 million contract extension with the New York Rangers. However, the Lightning believe that he could be the perfect addition to their team, offering upside despite his recent struggles.
One of the key factors that makes Lafrenière an attractive target for the Lightning is his affordable $2.3 million cap hit for this season. This presents an opportunity for Tampa Bay, who may be able to fit him into their lineup without making significant roster moves. Furthermore, the possibility of a large salary cap increase next season could help the Lightning retain him long-term, even if they need to make a few adjustments to their roster. This financial flexibility is especially valuable for a team with championship aspirations like Tampa Bay.
While Lafrenière’s numbers this season have not lived up to the hype, he did show flashes of what he’s capable of in the 2022-2023 season. He scored 28 goals and registered 57 points in 82 games, a clear indication of his offensive talent. If his struggles this year are tied to the Rangers’ overall offensive difficulties, the Lightning could provide a better environment for him to flourish. With Tampa Bay’s established offensive system, Lafrenière could rediscover his form and become the point producer the team believes he can be.
Lafrenière’s youth—he’s just 23—also makes him an intriguing option for the Lightning, who could benefit from adding a player with so much room for growth. He has the skill set to be a top-six forward and could be a key piece of the Lightning’s offensive depth for years to come. His size, speed, and vision on the ice would complement Tampa Bay’s already potent lineup, potentially pushing the team to even greater heights.
Though still in the early stages of negotiations, the Lightning are confident that acquiring Lafrenière could be a smart move for the future. His affordability, combined with his potential for growth, presents a rare opportunity for Tampa Bay to add a young, talented player to their roster without sacrificing their current cap space. If Lafrenière can return to his previous level of play, he could be a game-changer for the Lightning and a cornerstone of their future success.
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