TAMPA — Just days after another Lightning season abruptly ended, disbelief lingered in the locker room. Players were still processing a second consecutive first-round playoff defeat against the Panthers, this time in a five-game series.
“It still stings, no doubt,” said defenseman Ryan McDonagh. “You replay the games in your head, analyzing what went wrong. It was a tough series. In our minds, it wasn’t as one-sided as it looked. Every game was close, and we needed our team to execute better at critical times, and ultimately, we fell short.”
General manager Julien BriseBois acknowledged that last season had its challenges. However, he believes that the Lightning are a stronger team now, particularly in defense and 5-on-5 play, and are poised for a better playoff run in the future.
Despite their third straight first-round loss, BriseBois insisted that the Lightning are on the verge of another deep playoff journey.
“History favors the winners, making them seem better than they really are. Losers, on the other hand, often feel worse than they actually are,” BriseBois stated. “In hockey, sometimes you need a little luck. But you also need a solid team, and we’ve built one. Next season will see us field a strong team again.”
Coach Cooper Will Return Next Season
BriseBois and Jon Cooper addressed speculation about the coach’s future amidst rumors of potential job openings. “He’s coming back next season,” BriseBois confirmed. “After this contract, we expect him to sign again and stay for a long time.”
While Cooper’s contract remains undisclosed, his tenure as head coach since 2013 has led to a consistent period of success for the team, including two championships and three consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances.
With recent first-round playoff exits, speculation about his next move has increased. Cooper, who is among the most respected coaches in the NHL, voiced his commitment to Tampa: “Tampa is home for me, and my kids only remember this city. I’ve never worked with another organization, and it’s hard for me to envision being anywhere but here.”
The Upcoming Offseason Plans
As the Lightning gear up for the next season, some roster changes are expected. Center Yanni Gourde, back from Seattle, will be an unrestricted free agent, along with several others, including fourth-line center Luke Glendening and backup goaltender Jonas Johansson.
“I like everyone we’ve got, but the odds of keeping everyone are slim,” BriseBois admitted. “Some of them might want a bigger role elsewhere.”
Ryan McDonagh, 35, is entering the last year of his contract, having had a stellar season with a plus-43 rating. The Lightning may explore contract negotiations to keep him long-term. “I still have a burning desire to win, and this is the perfect place for me. I can’t picture myself being anywhere else,” McDonagh said.
Isaac Howard’s Future Is Uncertain
BriseBois discussed the tough situation regarding 2022 first-round pick Isaac Howard, who seems unlikely to join the Lightning. The standout from Michigan State, who won the Hobey Baker Award for being the top college player, intends to return to the Spartans after expressing differences with the Lightning over contract negotiations.
“Isaac was straightforward with me, and I value that. He wants to find the right fit for himself,” BriseBois noted. “At this point, it looks unlikely that we will sign him.”
The Lightning hold Howard’s rights until August 15, 2026, by which time he could be an unrestricted free agent, free to sign with any team. There are also discussions about potentially trading him soon, particularly around the upcoming draft, to maximize value.
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