The Tampa Bay Lightning are entering the 2024-2025 season with a mix of optimism and uncertainty, largely due to the departure of their long-time captain Steven Stamkos. After 16 years with the team, Stamkos leaves behind a legacy that will be hard to replicate, both in terms of leadership and offensive production. However, the Lightning have made key moves in the offseason to mitigate the loss and continue their competitive streak.
Life Without Stamkos: A New Chapter
Stamkos was not just a prolific scorer for the Lightning—he was the face of the franchise, a leader on and off the ice, and a critical piece of their power play with his patented one-timer. Losing him means the Lightning need to adjust quickly, especially on special teams. His ability to create scoring opportunities in high-pressure situations will be missed, and replacing his presence on the ice is easier said than done.
That said, the Lightning have brought in Jake Guentzel, a dynamic winger who has consistently been a top performer in the NHL. Guentzel, a former standout with the Pittsburgh Penguins, is expected to slot into the top line alongside Brayden Point and Nikita Kucherov. While Guentzel doesn’t have Stamkos’ right-handed slap shot, his ability to score and play at an elite level should help fill the offensive void. Guentzel’s adaptability and hockey IQ will be crucial in ensuring Tampa Bay’s top line continues to produce.
However, beyond just offensive production, Stamkos’ departure leaves a huge leadership gap. Ryan McDonagh, who rejoined the Lightning after a stint with the Nashville Predators, is expected to help fill that role. McDonagh brings experience, having worn the “A” as an alternate captain during his previous time in Tampa Bay, and his leadership will be crucial, especially for younger players like Cal Foote and Nick Perbix on the blue line. Though McDonagh is not known for his offensive prowess, his defensive stability and leadership qualities will help the Lightning maintain their defensive identity.
New Additions and Prospects
In addition to Guentzel and McDonagh, the Lightning have made some intriguing offseason moves that could pay dividends. One of the more promising additions is Conor Geekie, a top prospect acquired through a trade. Geekie’s potential to break into the lineup this season adds depth and skill to the Lightning’s forward group. The organization is also banking on the development of Gage Goncalves, who was an AHL All-Star last season and is expected to make an impact at the NHL level. These young talents provide optimism for the future, helping the team remain competitive while also planning for long-term success.
Another addition to watch this season is Janis Moser, acquired to reinforce the defense after Mikhail Sergachev’s departure. Moser has proven himself as a solid shot-blocking and physical presence on the ice, which will be crucial as the Lightning aim to shore up their defensive depth. He may not replace Sergachev’s offensive contributions, but his reliability on defense could make him a valuable asset.
The Vasilevskiy Factor
As in previous seasons, much of Tampa Bay’s success will hinge on Andrei Vasilevskiy’s performance. Widely regarded as one of the best goaltenders in the world, Vasilevskiy had a bit of a down season in 2023-2024, partly due to injuries and a heavy workload in prior years. This year, with a retooled defense and hopefully a healthier season ahead, the Lightning are counting on Vasilevskiy to return to his elite form. If he can regain his confidence and play at his peak, he has the potential to be the biggest difference-maker for the team. A strong season from Vasilevskiy would help cover any deficiencies from the departure of Stamkos or the growing pains of new players.
Challenges Ahead: Adapting to Change
The Lightning have had one of the NHL’s most successful runs in the past decade, but the 2024-2025 season marks a pivotal point for the franchise. Without Stamkos and with several new faces on the roster, the team will need to adjust quickly to ensure they remain competitive. The chemistry between Point, Kucherov, and Guentzel will be a key storyline to watch, particularly in how they manage the power play without Stamkos’ one-timer. There’s no question that the team will feel his absence, especially in close games and during playoff runs where his leadership and experience often proved invaluable.
On the blue line, McDonagh’s leadership will be tested as he helps integrate younger players into a lineup that has seen significant changes. While the defense might not have the same offensive flair without Sergachev, the Lightning’s overall structure should remain solid with Victor Hedman continuing to anchor the group.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for the Lightning
The 2024-2025 season will undoubtedly be a transition year for the Tampa Bay Lightning, as they adjust to life without Steven Stamkos. However, the team has made savvy moves to maintain their competitive edge. With the additions of Jake Guentzel and the return of Ryan McDonagh, combined with the development of young prospects like Conor Geekie, the Lightning are still poised to contend. Much of their success will depend on how quickly the new pieces fit together and how well Andrei Vasilevskiy performs in net.
While they may face growing pains early in the season, the Lightning have the talent, leadership, and coaching to remain a playoff contender. This season represents a new chapter for Tampa Bay—a team looking to continue its winning tradition while preparing for the future.
