The Lightning’s Search for Scoring Depth Continues
There’s no doubt the Lightning need better scoring depth from their forward group. Their top six have put up big numbers. In fact, Tampa Bay remains the only team in the NHL with four 20-goal scorers. But more than 83% of their goals scored by forwards have come from six players: Brayden Point, Jake Guentzel, Nikita Kucherov, Brandon Hagel, Anthony Cirelli, and Nick Paul.
Looking to Improve Ahead of the Trade Deadline
If there’s one thing the Lightning should target approaching the March 7 trade deadline, it’s more scoring punch from their bottom six. General manager Julien BriseBois said earlier this week that he doesn’t expect the trade market to evolve until teams return from the 4 Nations Faceoff break, two weeks before the deadline. While waiting for that to happen, the Lightning brass has to find out what it has internally. Part of that assessment is this week’s recall of prospect Gage Goncalves.
Prospect Gage Goncalves Gets Another Shot
Goncalves won’t solve all of the Lightning’s problems, but if he can become more of a scoring threat, it will make Tampa Bay feel better about itself on the nights its big guns are kept quiet. The 2020 second-round pick had just one goal and one assist in 26 games after his first recall on Nov. 13, and the Lightning reassigned him to AHL Syracuse on Jan. 14. He was brought back less than two weeks later and was in the lineup for Tuesday’s game against the Blackhawks as a third-line winger. Lightning coach Jon Cooper emphasized the importance of resilience and hard work in Goncalves’ journey back to the NHL.
Opportunity for Improvement
All signs point to Goncalves receiving an opportunity to prove himself between now and the final game before the break on Feb. 9. The Lightning are looking for more offense from him, building on his track record of goal-scoring prowess in the AHL. Goncalves has focused on improving his overall game and generating more scoring chances through increased shot volume and attention to detail on the ice.
Progress and Potential
BriseBois commended Goncalves for his improved performance in the AHL, showcasing his determination and potential for growth. The Lightning GM also mentioned the potential return of Jack Finley, another former second-round pick, who made his NHL debut recently. Finley is still working his way back from injuries but has the potential to become a regular NHL player in the near future.
Conclusion
The Lightning are actively seeking ways to enhance their scoring depth, with prospects like Gage Goncalves and Jack Finley showing promise for the team’s future success. As the trade deadline approaches, Tampa Bay is focused on internal evaluations and player development to address their offensive needs.
FAQs
1. Will Goncalves be able to make a significant impact for the Lightning?
While it remains to be seen, Goncalves’ dedication to improvement and goal-scoring ability suggest he could become a valuable asset for Tampa Bay.
2. What role does BriseBois see for Finley in the Lightning’s lineup?
BriseBois believes that with more playing time and recovery from injuries, Finley has the potential to establish himself as a regular NHL player in the near future.
