By This year, July 1 is an extra special day in the NHL.
For the first time in his career, Alexander Ovechkin hit free agency. His decision on the new contract with the Washington Capitals is imminent. At 40, he might not be able to produce 90-100 points a season anymore, but the hockey universe is simply not ready to let him go. Ovechkin has 929 goals and 1687 points in 1573 NHL games, or, speaking of time frames, in 21 seasons.
Another notable name on the market is Sergei Bobrovsky, who helped the Florida Panthers win two back-to-back Stanley Cups.
The list can go on. The issue is that the Tampa Bay Lightning franchise has been awfully quiet. The only solid news after the departure of leading defenseman Darren Raddysh is the rumors surrounding 2026 Norris Trophy winner Zack Werenski.
His choice reportedly is the Lightning. Werenski has two years left on a six-year, $57.5 million contract, which he will not extend with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Last season, he scored 22 goals and 81 points in 75 games. He also added the Olympic Goal with Team USA to his resume.
Werenski is the “Wanted Man” around the league. But on June 30, he declined to lift his no-move clause for the Dallas Stars. It gives the Lightning management some time to figure out a deal. Werenski would be an excellent addition to the Bolts, given his ability to move effectively, support the offense, and produce on the power play.
According to Spotrac, the Lightning have over $13 million in projected salary cap space for the upcoming season. It’s time to act.
Hopefully, by the time you finish reading this report, Werenski will be joining the Lightning.
