Background Information

Norwegian defenseman Emil Lilleberg grew to become a shock contributor to the Lightning blue line in his first season taking part in professional hockey in North America. On Tuesday, the 23-year-old was rewarded with a two-year extension price a assured $800,000 common annual worth that can hold him signed by means of the 2026-27 season. He can turn out to be a restricted free agent on the finish of that deal.

Previous Contract Details

Lilleberg initially was signed to a two-year, two-way contract final June after taking part in his earlier two seasons in Sweden’s prime skilled league. While the deal carried a $870,000 NHL cap hit, Lilleberg made a wage of solely $83,000 when taking part in within the minors because it was a two-way contract.

New Contract Details

Now, he will get assured NHL cash beginning subsequent season regardless of whether or not he’s on an NHL or AHL roster, a sign that he ought to play an everyday position on the Lightning’s blue line. In latest years, the Lightning have signed their younger defensemen to extensions to push again their RFA standing, inking Nick Perbix and Darren Raddysh to two-year extensions early of their NHL careers.

Season Performance

Lilleberg opened this previous season at AHL Syracuse however performed 37 video games for the Lightning, compiling 5 assists and bringing a bodily presence to the protection corps along with his 6-foot-2 body. He figures to be the Lightning’s seventh defenseman and fourth left-shot defenseman subsequent season.

Recent Trades

After reacquiring left-shot defenseman Ryan McDonagh, the Lightning made a shock commerce final week, dealing Mikhail Sergachev to Utah. Tampa Bay acquired 24-year-old left-shot defenseman J.J. Moser, who’s at the moment a restricted free agent.

Conclusion

The contract extension for Emil Lilleberg solidifies his place inside the Tampa Bay Lightning’s blue line, exhibiting the group’s confidence in his talents. His efficiency in his first season in North America has earned him a assured NHL contract, setting him up for a continued position within the group’s defensive lineup.

FAQs

1. Will Emil Lilleberg’s new contract impression the Lightning’s cap house?

While the small print of the contract weren’t disclosed, Lilleberg’s extension is more likely to have an effect on the group’s cap house. However, the Lightning have a historical past of managing their cap successfully to retain key gamers.

2. How does Lilleberg’s efficiency examine to different younger defensemen on the group?

Lilleberg’s contribution to the group in his first season has been promising, and his bodily presence on the blue line has been famous. Comparisons to different younger defensemen resembling Nick Perbix and Darren Raddysh present an analogous trajectory when it comes to contract extensions and position improvement.

3. What position is Lilleberg anticipated to play within the upcoming season?

As the Lightning’s seventh defenseman and a left-shot defenseman, Lilleberg is more likely to proceed offering depth to the group’s defensive lineup. His contract extension displays the group’s perception in his potential for progress and constant efficiency.