OFFSEASON DREAMS: Will Lightning PRIORITIZE Darren Raddysh and Nikita Kucherov for Cup?
From Locked On Lightning - Daily Podcast On The Tampa Bay Lightning by Locked On Podcast Network, Josh Sperber
May 27, 2026 · 33 min · Episode 1003
About this episode
The episode discusses the Tampa Bay Lightning's offseason plans, focusing on key player contracts and potential trades following an early playoff exit.
Tampa Bay Lightning fans dream of an offseason shakeup as the team seeks to rebound from another early playoff exit. Can the Bolts retain key defender Darren Raddysh, solidify their blue line, and secure a new contract for superstar Nikita Kucherov before outside distractions creep in? The debate heats up over whether Victor Hedman should pass the captaincy to Brandon Hagel, while the hunt is on for defensive upgrades and middle-six scoring depth. Nick Morgan and Greg Stephen break down blockbuster trade and free agent scenarios, from a Steven Stamkos reunion with Tampa Bay to creative blue line solutions like Rasmus Andersson or John Carlson. Plus, they recap the Vegas Golden Knights' stunning sweep of the Colorado Avalanche—has John Tortorella’s coaching gamble set a new NHL trend? Get bold takes and answers on the Lightning’s path back to contention.
People in this episode
Hosts: Nick Morgan, Greg Stephen
Topics covered
- offseason strategies
- NHL trades
- player contracts
- team performance
- defensive upgrades
- captaincy debate
Keywords
- Tampa Bay Lightning
- Darren Raddysh
- Nikita Kucherov
- Victor Hedman
- Brandon Hagel
- NHL trades
- Steven Stamkos
- defensive upgrades
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Tampa Bay Lightning, Vegas Golden Knights, Colorado Avalanche
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