Lightning Acquire Gourde and Bjorkstrand in Trade
TAMPA — Lightning general manager Julien BriseBois has never been hesitant to trade first-round draft picks in the name of trying to win a Stanley Cup now.
And in what had become a seller’s market ahead of Friday’s 3 p.m. NHL trade deadline, it became apparent that would likely be the price he’d have to pay.
But over the past five weeks, the Lightning have established themselves as Cup contenders, and it fueled BriseBois to do all he could to help pave the way for another deep postseason run.
Trade Details
A little less than 48 hours before the deadline, the Lightning struck with a trade that addressed their need to add a two-way forward who can supplement their recent stellar defensive play and provide more scoring punch to their middle six-forward group.
The Lightning reacquired forwards Yanni Gourde and Oliver Bjorkstrand from the Seattle Kraken in a three-team trade that also involved the Detroit Red Wings.
Impact of the Trade
The Kraken retain 50% of Gourde’s salary and Detroit will take 25%. The Lightning also acquired unsigned defenseman Kyle Aucoin from the Red Wings. This trade has left the Lightning without a first-round pick until 2028.
On-Ice Impact
Bjorkstrand uniquely fits the mold of the kind of players BriseBois pursues at this point of the season, those who will make the Lightning tougher to play against down the stretch and in the postseason.
Conclusion
Both Gourde and Bjorkstrand are expected to bolster the Lightning’s lineup, providing depth and skill in the quest for another Stanley Cup championship.
FAQs
1. When will Gourde and Bjorkstrand join the Lightning lineup?
Both players are expected to play in Thursday’s game against Buffalo at Amalie Arena.
2. How has the acquisition of Bjorkstrand addressed the Lightning’s needs?
Bjorkstrand brings scoring ability, defensive prowess, and playoff experience to the Lightning’s roster, making them stronger contenders.
