Dylan Duke – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #25 Tampa Bay Lightning – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 21:58:36 +0000

Sam O'Reilly of the London Knights. Photo by Luke Durda/OHL Images.

Prospect System Rank – 25th (Last Year - 29th)
GM: Julien BriseBois Hired: September 2018
COACH: Jon Cooper Hired: March 2013

The Tampa Bay Lightning operate with a philosophy shared by only a handful of NHL organizations. That's to identify the pieces needed to win now and find a way to put him on the roster no matter the cost. When a team has made the playoffs in eight consecutive seasons and captured two Stanley Cups along the way, few are inclined to question the approach.

The Lightning remain driven by a familiar core that continues to produce at an elite level. With Nikita Kucherov (32), Victor Hedman (35), Brayden Point (29), Andrei Vasilevskiy (31), Jake Guentzel (31), Anthony Cirelli (28), and Brandon Hagel (27) still anchoring the roster, Tampa Bay is clearly intent on extending its championship window for as long as possible. True to form, general manager Julien BriseBois once again targeted a specific addition at the trade deadline, acquiring veteran forward Corey Perry for a 2028 second-round pick. While Tampa Bay still retains most of its selections in the 2026 draft — missing only a first- and fourth-round pick — the organization is on the verge of entering a fourth consecutive draft without a first-round selection.

Despite the lack of high-end draft capital, the Lightning still features four prospects within McKeen’s Top 200 rankings. Leading the group is Sam O’Reilly (62nd), acquired from the Edmonton Oilers in a 2025 trade. Now in his fourth and final season of junior hockey, the forward is producing at just over a point-per-game pace across his OHL career. He is joined by fellow OHL standouts Marco Mignosa and Ethan Czata, both of whom continue to show encouraging development with their respective clubs.

Perhaps the most intriguing name on the rise is 2025 fourth-round selection Benjamin Rautiainen (97th). The Finnish forward has broken out in Liiga this season, emerging as one of the league’s top offensive producers. Whether these prospects remain in the system long enough to make a lasting impact is always an open question in Tampa Bay. But if history is any indication, the Lightning will continue prioritizing contention and remain a factor in the playoff picture for a few more seasons.

NHL	RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	2024-25 TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
TB	1	Sam O'Reilly	C	20	6-1/190	Ldn-Kit (OHL)	56	29	42	71	22
TB	2	Benjamin Rautiainen	C	20	6-0/175	Tappara (Fin-Liiga)	59	25	52	77	20
TB	3	Ethan Gauthier	RW	21	5-11/175	Syracuse (AHL)	56	12	15	27	10
TB	4	Dylan Duke	LW	23	5-10/180	Syracuse (AHL)	72	32	27	59	42
TB	4	Dylan Duke	LW	23	5-10/180	Tampa Bay (NHL)	1	0	0	0	0
TB	5	Ethan Czata	C	19	6-2/180	Niagara (OHL)	63	25	28	53	79
TB	5	Ethan Czata	C	19	6-2/180	Syracuse (AHL)	3	0	0	0	17
TB	6	Daniil Pylenkov	D	25	6-1/195	Dynamo Moskva (KHL)	64	9	45	54	22
TB	7	Jayson Shaugabay	RW	21	5-9/155	Minnesota Duluth (NCAA)	40	11	32	43	18
TB	8	Maxim Groshev	RW	24	6-2/195	Syracuse (AHL)	58	3	18	21	22
TB	8	Maxim Groshev	RW	24	6-2/195	Tampa Bay (NHL)	2	0	1	1	0
TB	9	Everett Baldwin	D	19	6-0/180	Saint John (QMJHL)	62	15	29	44	46
TB	10	Joe Connor	LW	21	5-10/175	Northeastern (NCAA)	36	13	14	27	20
TB	11	Jan Golicic	D	19	6-5/190	Gat-BLB (QMJHL)	57	5	39	44	38
TB	12	Noah Steen	LW	21	6-1/195	Orebro (SHL)	52	12	10	22	18
TB	12	Noah Steen	LW	21	6-1/195	Syracuse (AHL)	5	1	0	1	5
TB	13	Marco Mignosa	RW	21	6-0/170	Soo Greyhounds (OHL)	65	35	54	89	33
TB	14	Ethan Samson	D	22	6-1/195	LV-Syr (AHL)	40	5	13	18	24
TB	15	Lucas Mercuri	C	24	6-3/190	Syracuse (AHL)	67	14	12	26	132

1. Sam O'Reilly, C, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

Sam O’Reilly is going to need a bigger trophy case with two OHL Championships, one Memorial Cup, and a World Juniors bronze medal, plus a chance to earn more with a surging Rangers squad. Coming back from being one of Canada’s more productive forwards at the WJC, Sam was traded to London’s rival Kitchener, and he hasn’t missed a beat, going well over a point per game with his new team. O’Reilly is no stranger to being traded, as this past offseason, he was dealt to the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for Isaac Howard. There is a lot to love with the potential fit with Jon Cooper for O’Reilly as a utility middle-six forward. He’s a very projectable player with good smarts and the ability to find loose pucks, earning him points wherever he goes. O’Reilly might be a rare player who doesn’t have a weakness in his game, finding success in all three zones, particularly in his own end. I could see the Bolts bringing him up to the NHL to start next season, over bringing a Sabourin or Curtis Douglas back, even if just on a rotational basis with an AHL conditioning stint mixed in.

2. Benjamin Rautiainen, C, Tappara (Liiga)

Benjamin Rautiainen has emerged as one of the most compelling late-bloomer stories in Finland this season. Drafted in the fourth round of the 2025 NHL Draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning after going undrafted twice, Rautiainen has taken a significant step forward in his age-20 Liiga campaign. After posting 33 points in 50 games last year, he led the league scoring, and his 77 points broke the U21 scoring record set by Saku Koivu and the first 70-point season in almost 20 years. He earned Liiga MVP honours for his efforts. The growth in his game is tangible. Long criticized for perimeter habits and average explosiveness, Rautiainen now plays with far more pace and conviction. His edge work and agility have improved, allowing him to manipulate defenders off the rush and operate as a primary transition carrier. A natural playmaker, he controls entries, delays effectively, and attacks the middle with deception. While not overly physical, he protects pucks efficiently and competes more consistently away from them. Given Tampa Bay’s development track record, Rautiainen projects as a legitimate middle six NHL winger with offensive upside if his skating continues trending upward.

3. Ethan Gauthier, RW, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

Gauthier is enjoying a moderately successful season with the AHL's Syracuse Crunch as a pro hockey freshman. He's the youngest player on that team, and they're fairly deep at forward, but he's still finding ways to earn his minutes and chip in offensively. A former first overall pick in the QMJHL Entry Draft, his highly touted scoring abilities more or less came as advertised, playing a key role for the Canadian team that won gold at the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, and then leading Drummondville in playoff scoring as they captured the league title in 2024. And yet, it could simultaneously still be argued that he hasn’t fully lived up to his potential, as he will sometimes go quiet for long stretches. The quality of his shot is undeniable, but he can struggle to find enough time and space to properly utilize it, usually because of a mix of both effort and elusiveness. If Gauthier can smooth out the rough edges in his game that could clear the way for him to become a feared NHL goalscorer.

4. Dylan Duke, LW, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

It is impossible not to like and respect Duke with the way that he plays hockey. He is a mix between a buzzsaw and a bulldog, and he instantly becomes the hardest working player on the ice regardless of where or when he goes over the boards. He’s utterly fearless and relentless for a smaller forward, pinballing around the ice as he inserts himself into the play however he can. It also needs to be said, however, that there’s a certain kind of brilliance to how he gets inside and under opposing players to win battles, and he has a real sixth sense for getting to rebounds and loose pucks before anyone else does. He’s leading the Syracuse Crunch in goals this season, and it’s no surprise because he’s so in tune with himself and so hyperaware of what his strengths are. Will Duke’s success carry over to the NHL one day? Probably not to the same degree, because guys like him usually have a hard time sustaining it and surviving the grind. But bet against him at your own peril.

5. Ethan Czata, C, Niagara IceDogs (OHL) (Currently with Syracuse Crunch, AHL)

The Niagara Ice Dogs have been pretty mediocre through late January and February, but Czata has been a huge bright spot. His production has skyrocketed, scoring in a variety of ways from crashing the net to using his heavy wrister as well as retrieving pucks from down low to sustain play in the offensive zone. He’s progressed quite well since his debut OHL season and is looking like he’ll make the NHL in some sort of capacity. His consistency of reads with the puck and decrease in turnovers have been very noticeable from his earlier days with the Dogs. The Bolts have a sneaky good find at pick 56 in 2024 with Czata. At the next level, he’s a guy who can score in different ways and have an impact in front of the net even when not scoring. His big hits and smarts will help him fit in well in a gritty Tampa Bay bottom six.

6. Daniil Pylenkov, D, Dymano Moscow (KHL)

It's tough to find any major holes in Pylenkov’s game. The former seventh round draft pick has improved year over year and is thriving in his role as the number one defenceman for Dynamo Moskova. He lacks the flash and high-end skill to be a high-end player in the NHL, but his patience and intelligence allow him to be effective in all areas of the ice, in all situations. He facilitates well along the blue line, running the first power play unit, and can activate in the offensive zone playing as a fourth winger when called upon. His positioning is sound, shutting down plays in the neutral zone and keeping forwards to the outside. In the defensive end, he patrols the middle of the ice and battles hard in the corners and in front of the net. On breakouts, he is always in a supportive position and can snap passes up ice to start the rush. At 25 years old, his development is likely complete and if he does come over to North America, his game is probably good enough to slot into a bottom pair role. This past season, though, he signed a two-year extension, which likely prevents him from coming to North America before he turns 27, if he even planned on doing so.

7. Jayson Shaugabay, RW, University of Minnesota-Duluth (NCAA)

Shaugabay’s development over the last couple of seasons has pushed his name up the list of Tampa Bay Lightning prospects to watch. He has been on an upward trajectory each year since being drafted, culminating in his second NCAA season being his first point-per-game season since he played high school hockey in 2022-23. He has played with the Plante brothers with the University of Minnesota-Duluth, which brings into question whether he can lead his own line and pull his own weight, while maintaining his point-production. He’s certainly trending in the right direction towards becoming an NHL player for a Lightning organization that has consistently found such talents in the later rounds. Shaugabay is a playmaker with a high hockey IQ and excellent stickhandling chops to push the pace. He needs to continue improving his skating ability and bulking up in the NCAA to improve his odds at making the NHL level. If he can continue to do that, he projects as a third line scoring winger. However, he is right on that line when it comes to projecting him, as he could go on to be an AHL all-star who struggles to find a role in the NHL.

8. Maxim Groshev, D, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

Groshev is easily one of the most fascinating prospects in Tampa Bay’s system, primarily because he shifted from playing forward to playing defence at age 23, which is almost unheard of that far into a player’s career. What’s even more surprising is just how well the switch has gone for him, fitting into the Syracuse Crunch’s blueline almost seamlessly, and even holding his own for a couple of games up with the Lightning. He has a genuine knack for breaking pucks out of his own end, and he isn’t shy about taking calculated risks to do so. Maybe defence is the position that he was always destined to play, because he was often quite frustrating to watch as a forward, struggling to fully understand how best to use his size and athletic gifts to make a positive difference. Groshev is a restricted free agent at the end of this season, and it would be an absolute shame if he and the Lightning didn’t agree to terms about bringing him back, if for no other reason than to see how his story unfolds from here, this close to the NHL.

9. Everett Baldwin, D, Saint John's Sea Dogs (QMJHL) (Currently with Syracuse Crunch, AHL)

After spending last season in the United States, playing mostly in the USHS prep circuit, Baldwin decided to commit to the QMJHL for the 2025–2026 season before ultimately joining Providence College in the NCAA the following year. It was a smart move for Baldwin, who presently plays around 20 minutes each game. The young defender finished with 44 points in 62 games, a solid production, finishing ninth in defensive scoring in the QMJHL. Baldwin is an agile skater, very mobile with and without the puck. He likes to lead the charge offensively, and he supports attacks well. He is not the most creative defender, but he shows great intelligence with the puck and does well to funnel pucks to the middle of the ice, using his mobility to his advantage to evade pressure. The physical side of the game is a work in progress, but the frame suggests that it could be there sooner than later. Since being drafted last year, Baldwin has improved a lot in all aspects of the game. Will it be enough for him to play in the NHL? His play at the NCAA level will give a better indication of that.

10. Joe Connor, LW, Northeastern University (NCAA)

Being a crafty, shoot-first winger who excels in transition, Joe Connor is putting together a solid resume at Northeastern University. His stick handling is used so well when he’s entering the zone, making him and any teammate that trails him, deadly off the rush. Connor also has his deadly shot as a weapon, specializing in set ups off the faceoff. He isn’t terribly fast, but he is fearless as his 5-foot-10 body has been tossed around by the Hockey East and Connor is right back on his feet after every hit. Connor is annoying to defencemen when he gets around them to receive an outlet pass, but can have a habit of flying up too early and becoming a non-factor in the defensive zone. Additionally, he can be a bit of a wild man when passing, needing to gain better vision and accuracy in the offensive zone. Though his game is chaotic, Joe Connor is an intriguing player who will at least play meaningfully in Syracuse, Tampa’s AHL squad, soon. He will receive even more promising development to eventually make the NHL. Just look at how many homegrown guys the Lightning have on their roster now.

11. Jan Golicic, D, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL)

The massive Slovenian defender has had another good year in the QMJHL, especially following a trade to the Armada. He brings physical play and improved confidence with the puck.

12. Noah Steen, LW, Örebro HK (SHL) (Currently with Syracuse Crunch, AHL)

Steen is having his best season to date in the SHL. The Norwegian winger is a hard worker who projects as a potential bottom six forward for Tampa.

13. Marco Mignosa, RW, Soo Greyhounds (OHL)

Now in his overage OHL season with the Soo Greyhounds, Mignosa continues to improve his all-around game. Upgrading his speed and explosiveness got him drafted last year.

14. Ethan Samson, D, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

Recently acquired by Lightning, Samson is a former WHL standout whose development had stalled in the Flyers' system. He needs to play his way into Tampa’s long-term plans.

15. Lucas Murcuri, C, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

Mercuri's rights were acquired by the Lightning after Carolina had decided that they would not be signing him following his four years at UMass. The big power forward has found an immediate role in the AHL with Syracuse as a Tom Wilson lite, lending promise to a potential fourth line role with Tampa.

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #29

The McKeen's Scouting Team — Sat, 20 Sep 2025 20:03:10 +0000

Sam O'Reilly of the London Knights. Photo by Luke Durda/OHL Images

Prospect System Rank – 29th (May 2025 - 26th)
GM: Julien BriseBois Hired: September 2018
COACH: Jon Cooper Hired: March 2013

The Tampa Bay Lightning are fresh off an eighth straight playoff berth and haven’t skipped a beat despite bidding farewell to long-time captain Steven Stamkos. They finished with the NHL’s seventh-highest point total, still powered by the familiar core of Nikita Kucherov (31), Victor Hedman (31), Brayden Point (29), Andrei Vasilevskiy (30), and now newcomer Jake Guentzel (30).

True to form, GM Julien BriseBois continued to prioritize the present over the future, dealing his 2025 first-round pick along with 2026 and 2027 first rounders to bolster the middle six. It’s a familiar trade-off in Tampa—maximize the window now, worry about tomorrow later.

That approach has inevitably taken a toll on the prospect pool. In addition to the graduation of Connor Geekie, the offseason saw their top-ranked prospect, Isaac Howard, moved out, which was a necessary decision given his unwillingness to sign with the club. In return, they acquired Sam O’Reilly, who now claims the top spot in their pipeline.

Beyond O’Reilly, the depth is thin. 2023 second-rounder Ethan Gauthier has joined the AHL’s Syracuse Crunch alongside Dylan Duke and Niko Huuhtanen. While all three continue to develop, none project as immediate difference-makers at the NHL level.

Years of trading premium picks for playoff reinforcements have left the organization reliant on uncovering late-round steals and shrewd external acquisitions to keep the system afloat.

The upside? The Lightning’s core remains firmly in its prime, and as long as it does, the team’s championship window stays wide open. BriseBois is all-in once again, betting that this veteran group has another Stanley Cup run left in them—even if it means the cupboard stays bare.

Tampa Bay Lightning Top-15 Prospects

1 - Sam O'Reilly

Acquired from the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for Isaac Howard, O’Reilly emerged as one of the OHL’s premier two-way players. The offensive numbers didn’t completely pop off, but the details in O’Reilly’s game greatly improved. He looked noticeably quicker and stronger, allowing him to become an elite shutdown pivot who can protect leads late in games and kill penalties. He’s a very intelligent player who shows great promise as a playmaker too; he’s patient and poised with the puck. Next year, O’Reilly will be counted upon to be the go-to offensive player for London and that will be terrific for his development. His projection hasn’t likely changed from being a quality middle six pivot who can play in all situations, however, as the physical tools continue to be upgraded, he becomes more and more likely to reach that projection.

2 - Ethan Gauthier

Ethan Gauthier was the first QMJHL player taken in the 2023 NHL Draft, selected 37th overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning. After a point-per-game draft year with Sherbrooke, he was traded to Drummondville, where he helped capture a QMJHL title. In 2023-2024, the right winger produced 71 points in 64 games and 25 points in 19 playoff games, finishing second in postseason scoring. His 2024–25 season followed a similar pattern with 62 points in 50 games, plus 12 in seven playoff contests, ranking second in playoff points per game. He also appeared in all five of team Canada’s World Junior games in 2025, and even played three games in the AHL with Syracuse. Gauthier has, so far, developed as expected. He has maintained a high work ethic while showing his reliability as an elite junior goal scorer, with 20 goals in 26 games over his last two playoff campaigns. His lethal one-timer can be fired from anywhere with impressive accuracy. He is also a strong player who imposes his power forward style. Next season, he will likely play full time with Syracuse in the AHL, and a lot of questions will be answered, especially regarding his skating and pace.

3 - Max Crozier

It’s been a slow burn for Crozer, a fourth-round selection out of the USHL in 2019. He played four years at Providence College and has now played two seasons split between the AHL and NHL level. At every stop, he’s been a highly effective two-way defender and it seems like only a matter of time before Crozier is patrolling Tampa’s blueline permanently. When he played for the Lightning, he performed well, but depth has kept him with Syracuse. However, he recently signed a new deal, and Crozier is also no longer exempt from waivers next season, suggesting his roster spot might be locked up. Crozier took a big step forward offensively in the AHL this past year. He’s quarterbacking the power play. He’s still bringing it physically and operating as a shutdown defender. The big right shot defender was among the league leaders in ice time this past year, averaging over 25 minutes per game. Needless to say, Crozier is NHL ready.

4 - Ethan Czata

The physically intense, two-way forward was a second-round selection of the Lightning this past year and has already been rewarded with his ELC, a rarity this quickly for players drafted outside of the first round. It’s a testament to how the Lightning view Czata as a potentially elite third line player in the future. He’s versatile thanks to a well-rounded skill set and the ability to play any forward position. He’s physically assertive and projects as an above average defensive player at the NHL level. Offensively, he started the past year well for the Niagara IceDogs but faded a bit down the stretch. This season, he’ll look to become more consistent with the puck and should receive a ton of ice time for an improving Niagara team. He’ll also look to improve his finishing ability, an area that needs refining, especially given how many looks he earns in tight with his hard work through the middle of the ice. Tampa is likely hoping that Czata can develop into the next Anthony Cirelli for them.

5 - Dylan Duke

A former standout with the U.S. NTDP and at the University of Michigan, there was some concern about Duke’s ability to translate his skill set to the pro game. However, he was excellent for Syracuse as a rookie, leading the Crunch in goal scoring and even earning a brief NHL call-up that saw him score his first NHL goal. Duke’s hard-working nature, high IQ, and quick feet have allowed his lack of size to be a relative non-factor in the AHL. He’s now put himself in a position to push for a depth spot with the Lightning next year. Duke’s upside isn’t likely to be extremely high. He probably tops out as a complementary third line winger. However, Tampa has maintained their success through developing similar players extremely well. The focus for Duke will need to be improving his strength on the puck further and then he’ll put himself in a position to be that next man up.

6 - Connor Kurth

2024-25 was a great season for Kurth, a former scoring star in the USHL, as he emerged as a go-to offensive player for Minnesota in his junior year. As a result, the Lightning signed him to an ELC, and he has a chance to move fairly quickly if he performs well in a system without a ton of offensive firepower. Kurth is a stocky play driver who is more skill oriented than reliant on power. However, his game did add more truculence to it this past year and it was one of the main reasons why he was able to finally break out offensively. The other main reason was improvement to his quickness and pace of play. There’s likely to be an adjustment period for Kurth at the pro level, just as there was for him when he moved from the USHL to the NCAA; he’s going to need time to adjust to the pace and strength of the pro game. However, as his progress this year has shown, he has the well-rounded game to be a middle six contributor for Tampa Bay down the line.

7 - Niko Huuhtanen

Huuhtanen came into the 2024-25 season with a fair amount of hype after two great years in Liiga with Jukurit. The big power forward was even considered a sneaky candidate to earn a role with the Lightning. However, his first pro season with Syracuse showed that he’s still got some work to do before being ready for the NHL. There’s no question that he still has NHL upside. He drives the net effectively playing a north-south power game. He hits like a truck. He has a heavy shot that could end up being a weapon on the power play. However, his pace of play lags behind. Dating back to his draft year, skating has been the knock on Huuhtanen, but he’s worked hard to improve it, including those two years in Finland after playing in Everett (WHL). Yet, there’s a need to improve it further to be successful in North America.

8 - Jack Finley

Finley got a late start to his third professional season after injuring himself prior to the start of the season. After returning in January, Finley was one of Syracuse’s top players. The big pivot has the ability to dominate down low and near the net front. His skating has come a long way as a pro too, to the point where he can be the focal point of offensive attacks. This offseason will be a big one for Finley as he prepares to try to earn a roster spot in Tampa Bay next year. He’s out of options, so Tampa Bay will need to make a tough decision if they feel that his game is still not ready. A more likely scenario sees him catch on as Tampa Bay’s fourth line center to start the year, so long as he has a good training camp. Finley’s NHL upside isn’t significant, but there’s a chance he could be a very good bottom six player and a secondary power play option.

9 - Everett Baldwin

One of the pre-draft favourites of the McKeen’s scouting team this past year, Baldwin was a terrific selection by the Lightning in the fifth round. While drafting out of the prep loop can be a little bit tricky, Baldwin’s strong skating ability gives him a foundation to work with, even if many aspects of his game need refinement. A Providence College commit, Baldwin has elected to spend this coming season in the QMJHL with Saint John, an excellent decision for his development. The Sea Dogs are trying to turn things around next year and Baldwin should receive a ton of ice time in all situations. He has a chance to have a big offensive season from the blueline and that will give us a better indication of his true upside. Make no mistake, Baldwin is a long-term project, as many prep players are, but Tampa’s patience could pay off in a big way as he learns to refine his approach.

10 - Daniil Pylenkov

Daniil Pylenkov was a nice pick up for the Lightning a few years ago in the seventh round of the draft. He has developed well over the last few seasons into a very serviceable two-way defenceman. He lacks the flash that your typical modern defenceman may possess but makes up for it with patient decision making on both sides of the puck. He has become a valuable distributor on Dynamo Moskva’s power play, snapping the puck around well and firing tippable shots from the point. Defensively he is responsible in his positioning and does a good job breaking up plays with an active stick. He has just re-signed with Dynamo Moskva for the next two seasons so it is unlikely he will be playing for Tampa in the near future if at all. If he does come over, he will likely need some time in Syracuse to continue his growth but may get some looks with the Lightning on their bottom pair at some point in the near future.

11- Jayson Shaugabay

The University of Minnesota-Duluth will be led by two undersized playmakers: Max Plante and Jayson Shaugabay. Shaugabay had two fewer points in 13 more games than the former yet is still an offensive threat with his passing. Minnesota-Duluth hasn’t loaded up with talent like some other NCAA programs, so a lot of weight will be put on Shaugabay’s shoulders to put up points this season as their number two forward.

12 - Gabriel Szturc

Szturc was signed last summer by the Lightning as an undrafted free agent after a couple of point per game seasons with the Kelowna Rockets. He made the transition to the AHL this year, where he scored 19 points in 54 games. He has a decent shot, but not much high-end offensive skill beyond that. He’ll likely serve as a middle six winger in Syracuse, where he can continue to develop his production.

13 - Hagen Burrows

It’s hard not to like a prospect with size who has a sniper-esque shot like Burrows has. Unfortunately for Burrows, he is a poor skater and a slow skater. Playing at the NCAA level last year, it was clear his skating issues were holding him back, scoring one goal in 39 games. Entering his second season with Denver, Burrows will look for a larger role, although that hinges on his skating improvements.

14 - Roman Schmidt

Roman Schmidt is simply a big shutdown defenceman. You won’t get many points out of him, however, he balances that out with how little he gives up. He plays a physical brand of hockey that leaves a mark. He isn’t afraid to mix it up with his opponents or stand up for a teammate. He’ll be in the AHL with Syracuse for now, but at 6-foot-5 and a right shot, it shouldn’t be long before he gets his first NHL game.

15 - Dyllan Gill

In the upcoming season, Gill is looking to keep his injuries behind him. Gill has had two shoulder surgeries that have caused significant missed time the past two seasons. He’s a two-way defenceman with some moderate offensive potential. The seventh-round draft pick has shown he can improve when he’s on the ice, and that seems to be the hardest part. He’ll be with the Crunch full-time next season but may split some time in the ECHL.

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: #26 TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

Sun, 18 May 2025 14:59:01 +0000

MONTREAL, QC - JULY 07: Tampa Bay Lightning pick Isaac Howard stands between management during the first round of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft on July 07, 2022 at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC (Photo by David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire)

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Tampa Bay 25 Prospects

AHL: MOROZ – AHL Rookies to Watch – North Division

Michael Moroz — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 13:00:01 +0000

_{NEWARK, NJ - JULY 14: New Jersey Devils defenseman Seamus Casey (72) skates during New Jersey Devils Development Camp on July 14, 2023, at RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire)}

The AHL season is well underway and we have seen some exciting games across the slate. We have also gotten a small preview of what we can expect to see from some of this year’s top rookies. This week we are continuing our AHL division previews, focusing on rookies to watch across all four divisions.

This week: the North Division.

Nikita Grebyonkin - Toronto Marlies

Maple Leaf fans have been just as excited about Grebyonkin as they have been about some of their top prospects from recent years - and for good reason. Grebyonkin may still be unknown to some NHL fans, but the 2022 fifth-round pick has made headlines by making steady contributions as a player on Metallurg Magnitogorsk’s Gagarin Cup-winning team last season in the KHL. Grebyonkin has seemingly parlayed last year’s solid season - 19 goals and 22 assists in the KHL - into a strong start with the Toronto Marlies, and with his unique combination of size and skill, it is only a matter of time before he starts suiting up with the big club. Who doesn’t love a player with size that can make plays?

Honorable mentions from the Toronto Marlies: Artur Akhtyamov and Jacob Quillan

Filip Mesar - Laval Rocket

It is evidently apparent in the hockey world that two assessments can be true. On the one hand, Filip Mesar’s junior hockey career with the Kitchener Rangers in the OHL probably didn’t go as expected. Mesar didn’t score as much as he was expected to, but performed well in last year’s OHL playoffs. At the international level, Mesar performed quite well with Slovakia’s under-20 team, but results matter nonetheless. This season, Mesar has gotten off to a hot start with the Laval Rocket - and he’s showing signs of why the Canadiens took him in the first round back in 2022. Nobody has doubted Mesar’s ability to make plays; he just needs to consistently make those plays and looks to be doing so to start the season.

Dylan Duke - Syracuse Crunch

I think many scouts would make the case that Dylan Duke was selected too low coming out of the United States National Development Program at the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. Since then, Duke has done nothing but prove his critics wrong, and after three successful seasons at the University of Michigan - Duke is making his mark in the AHL with the Syracuse Crunch. One of the best parts of Duke’s game is his willingness to go to the hard areas, even though he’s not the biggest player on the ice. Combine Duke’s no-fear attitude with his underrated ability to shoot the puck and make plays, and you see the makings of a future bottom-six forward in the NHL. Time will tell if he ultimately gets there, but he’s making the case that he deserves a shot.

Stephen Halliday - Belleville Senators

Halliday has been one of the better success stories since he was passed on twice at the NHL draft in 2020 and 2021. After a 95-point season with the Dubuque Fighting Saints in the USHL in 2022, the Ottawa Senators drafted Halliday in the 4th round, and the pick has looked better and better every day since. Halliday played two seasons at Ohio State University and led the team in scoring both years, earning a contract with the Senators at the end of his sophomore season in 2024. From there he joined the Belleville Senators and immediately made offensive contributions for the team in the playoffs with his cerebral playmaking abilities. Halliday was one of Ottawa’s better players at their rookie camp, and he looks like he will continue his strong start with the Belleville Senators this season.

Denton Mateychuk - Cleveland Monsters

There are some kids you just know will play in the NHL, and you can identify them from a young age. Ask anyone in Manitoba and they’ll say the same about Denton Mateychuk. Mateychuk can skate, make plays, and can also be downright nasty - he’s always a willing combatant for net-front battles and loose pucks in the corners. These unique combinations of skills make teams salivate over adding a player of Mateychuk’s caliber to their prospect systems, and it’s only a matter of time before Mateychuk sees significant minutes with the Columbus Blue Jackets. I hope all AHL fans enjoy watching Mateychuk in person this season - because he won’t be there for long.

Vsevolod Komarov - Rochester Americans

Vsevolod Komarov knows how to win, and these are elements the Buffalo Sabres faithful have been hoping to incorporate into their big club for several seasons. Komarov won the QMJHL Championship and Memorial Cup with the Quebec Remparts in 2023, the QMJHL Championship again with the Drummondville Voltigeurs and the Emile Bouchard Trophy as the QMJHL’s top defenceman in 2024. Komarov also won these accolades by playing top pairing minutes and being plus-38 and plus-47, respectively. Komarov competes, plays hard, and knows what he is. I have a feeling he’ll be playing in the NHL as a serviceable top-six defenceman for a long time.

Seamus Casey - Utica Comets

Casey started the season with the New Jersey Devils and had an immediate effect on Devils fans with his offensive prowess and playmaking abilities. The knock on Casey has always been his defending, but Casey showed he can play on both ends of the ice at the NHL level. The Devils have a plethora of young defencemen looking to make their mark with the big club, so perhaps Casey is the victim of a numbers game, but he will be back in the NHL in no time. Comets fans - enjoy watching him play, and go watch him in person. He’s one of a kind.

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – TAMPA BAY LIGHTING – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #30

Introduction - Dave Hall, Profiles - Brock Otten — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 13:00:39 +0000

_{NEWARK, NJ - FEBRUARY 25: Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Maxwell Crozier (65) looks on during a game between the against the against the Tampa Bay Lightning and New Jersey Devils on February 25, 2024 at Prudential Center in the Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire)}

Prospect System Rank – 30th (Previous Rank - 29th)
GM: Julien BriseBois Hired: September 2018
COACH: Jon Cooper Hired: March 2013

The Tampa Bay Lightning continues to embody the "run it back" philosophy, relying on a veteran core to remain competitive year after year. It's hard to argue with the results, as they are just two years removed from three consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances and back-to-back championships. However, with aging veterans and little value sitting on the shelves, the end of the runway may be in sight.

Julien BriseBois has been notably averse to first-round picks, having selected in the first round only twice since his hiring in 2018. Unless future trades are made, that trend could continue into the 2025 NHL Entry Draft after bringing back a familiar face in Ryan McDonough for a top 10 protected first pick.

However, for the first time in what feels like a decade, perhaps we’ve finally seen a change in strategy.

In a surprising move, the Lightning acquired top prospect Conor Geekie (ranked 32nd by McKeen’s) from the Utah Hockey Club in exchange for 26-year-old Mikael Sergachev. This trade gives Tampa Bay their first top 50 McKeen’s ranked prospect in quite some time and may signal a shift towards replenishing their prospect pool—an unfamiliar prospect for Lightning fans.

Adding the likes of Geekie, who may even see games in the 2024-25 campaign, is a step in the right direction, but there is still a long road ahead.

Gage Goncalves, a 2020 second-round pick, has been developing steadily in Syracuse, coming off a strong season with 58 points in 69 games to finish just outside the top 10 in AHL scoring. At 23 years old, he’s likely to be given a longer leash after a brief stint in the 2023-24 season.

Isaac Howard (157th), the Lightnings’ only first-round draft pick in the last five years, remains a key part of their future, though he will continue to develop at the collegiate level with Michigan State. While there’s hope he could see NHL ice time as early as this spring, the team’s status as a perennial playoff contender raises questions about whether rushing him into the lineup is the best course of action.

The recent swap of Steven Stamkos for Jake Guentzel indicates that the Lightning will continue their push to remain relevant as long as players like Victor Hedman (33), Nikita Kucherov (31), Brayden Point (28) and Andrei Vasilevskiy (30) are in town.

Tampa Bay’s championship window is still wide open, but with little depth, and a lack of draft capital, they are treading in dangerous waters for the future.

Tampa Bay Lightning Top-15 Prospects

1. Conor Geekie

One of the big pieces acquired from Utah in the Mikhail Sergachev deal, Geekie immediately became Tampa’s best prospect. The big power pivot is such a difficult player to stop North/South, as he drives the middle lane with speed and advanced puck protection ability. The former 11th overall selection nearly broke the 100-point barrier in the WHL last season and is ready to take that next step as a pro. The big debate surrounding Geekie revolves around his upside as an NHL player. When his size and power advantage is neutralized, how effective will he be as an offensive player? Does he think the game at a high enough level to drive play and make those around him better at the NHL level? Geekie’s future could take a variety of different turns. Could he be a top six power center cut from the same cloth as the Tkachuk brothers? Or is he destined to be more of a bottom six contributor? Tampa Bay will learn a lot more about Geekie’s upside this year at the pro level.

2. Ethan Gauthier

Gauthier, the son of former NHL defender Denis Gauthier, and the 37th overall pick in last year’s draft, had another successful season in the QMJHL, this time with Drummondville after an offseason trade. The physically assertive forward plays a pro style game that revolves around being able to earn touches between the hash marks. He drives the net, forechecks hard, and has continued to round out his game as a two-way player. Gauthier also shoots the puck well and his goal scoring ability is the component of his offensive arsenal that likely translates the best to the pro level. To be an effective pro, Gauthier continues to work on his skating, working to become more explosive and agile. He’ll return to the QMJHL this season and should be one of the league’s top forwards as a 20-year-old. Depending on the development of his off puck play and skating, he could be NHL ready, sooner rather than later.

3. Isaac Howard

Howard, the team’s only first round selection in the last five years, had a terrific sophomore season after hitting the transfer portal the previous offseason. Howard shifted from Minnesota-Duluth to Michigan State, and it had a very positive impact on his development. He led the Spartans in scoring last year and also played a crucial role for the United States at the WJC’s, helping them capture gold. Howard was noticeably stronger on the puck last season, helping him take greater advantage of his strong skating ability to generate scoring chances. He’s a very dangerous player on the counterattack, and despite his low goal total at Michigan State, actually possesses high upside as a goal scorer because of his quick release. Howard will return to Michigan State this year as a junior and he should be considered a preseason candidate for the Hobey Baker. He might just have the highest upside of any player in Tampa’s system.

4. Niko Huuhtanen

Huuhtanen continued on the terrific development path that he started after a breakout season with WHL Everett in 2022. Two years ago, he was the rookie of the year in Liiga and this past year he led Jukurit in scoring. The big power forward signed late last season and finished his year in the AHL, giving him a taste of what to expect this coming year, his first as a pro in North America. Huuhtanen is a throwback power winger who plays a very heavy game. He’s a relentless physical player who is still learning how to walk the line in terms of discipline. However, he is most effective when he plays the power game, dominating the wall and the net front area. Huuhtanen is a prolific goal scorer, too, thanks to a very heavy release and one timer. His positive development curve has put him on a path to become a quality middle six option for the Lightning in the near future.

5. Gage Goncalves

It’s been a long road for Goncalves. The former WHL standout has now played three seasons in the AHL, improving in each of them. He led Syracuse in scoring by a significant margin this past season and finally earned a cup of coffee with the Lightning. The two-way pivot has proven to be a versatile pro. He plays an intelligent game at both ends, excelling on and off the puck. His attention to detail as a defensive player is likely going to be the thing that gets him into the NHL in a depth role before he carves out a larger one. As an offensive player, his vision and playmaking ability stand out most. He understands how to alter pace to manipulate defenses and is hard on pucks to help his line prolong offensive zone time. This year, Goncalves will need to pass through waivers in order to go to the AHL, so it seems likely that if he has a good camp, he will be given a bottom six role in Tampa Bay.

6. Max Crozier

The Lightning have to be ecstatic about what Crozier showed this past season after turning pro. Earlier last season he did not look out of place in Tampa Bay when the Lightning were having serious injury issues on the blueline. Closing out the year with Syracuse, Crozier was a near point per game defender in the AHL. Full of confidence, we saw the full scope of the impact that he can have on the game at both ends. The 6-foot-2 right shot defender does a lot of things well. He defends well thanks to an aggressive approach, a long reach, and good mobility. He takes away space from opposing forwards and defends tight spaces well thanks to his physical assertiveness. Crozier also makes a clean exit pass and has flashed an ability to quarterback the powerplay, with a strong ability to get shots through traffic. While Crozier might not have significant NHL upside, he looks like someone who can be a stable #4 or 5 defender for many years.

7. Declan Carlile

Carlile is about to be a third-year pro after a strong performance at Merrimack College and is a standout in the defensive end. He projects as a quality stay at home defender at the NHL level and he may be ready for an NHL roster spot as early as this season. He has the size. He has the reach. He is mobile. He brings physicality. He has an active stick but is also aggressive in taking away space. Carlile looks like he can help anchor a penalty killing unit in the NHL. As an offensive player, his heavy point shot helps to generate scoring chances or goals and he can make a good exit pass, but he is at his best when he keeps things simple. Much like Max Crozier, Carlile looks like a long time NHL defender for Tampa Bay, but probably tops out as a third pairing type.

8. Dylan Duke

On a Michigan team full of potential front end NHL players, Duke stood out consistently for all the right reasons this past season, finishing third in scoring and first in goals on the Wolverines. It was a very promising junior season for the diminutive pivot. Duke has always been a highly skilled playmaker who creates time and space for himself with his hands, but upgrades to his strength, off puck play, shot, and skating really upgraded his projection as a pro. Somewhat surprisingly, Duke decided to turn pro, signing with Tampa Bay at the end of the season. It might have been wise for him to return to Michigan to continue to upgrade his physical tools; he would have had a shot at being one of the better players in College Hockey this year. However, it will be interesting to see how he adjusts to the AHL level. While he may still be a bit of a long shot given his lack of high-end physical tools, his upside remains intriguing.

9. Jack Finley

The massive center took a nice step forward in his second pro season with Syracuse last year. Teams have to be patient with bigger forwards as they grow into their frame and Finley has been no different. He dominated down low at the WHL level before turning pro but had to continue to upgrade his strength and conditioning in order to do that at the AHL level. Behind the net is his office and he has very good vision coming off the wall and the cycle. Finley has also had to adjust to the pace of the pro game, especially as an only average skater. He’s likely still a bit away from making an impact in Tampa Bay, but the Lightning have to be hoping that he can continue to develop into an Adam Lowry kind of high end third line center in the future. The Lightning will be hoping that Finley can inch closer to the point per game mark with Syracuse this year.

10. Daniil Pylenkov

Pylenkov’s development has been steady since the Lightning drafted him in 2021 in his second last year of eligibility. Now 23 (turning 24 soon), Pylenkov has emerged as one of the top young defencemen in the KHL. He still has a year remaining on his KHL deal so he won’t be coming over this year, but after that? He could be an option for Tampa as a bottom pairing defender. Pylenkov is certainly not a flashy player, however he’s a very crafty one. He makes a clean exit. He is a great stick on-puck defender. He makes sound decisions with his reads with and without the puck. His NHL upside is likely limited, but the progression of his offensive game in the KHL suggests that his projection could continue to improve. Defensive depth never hurts and Tampa has built that up well.

11. Hagen Burrows

Last year’s winner of Minnesota’s Mr. Hockey Award, Burrows was a fourth-round pick of the Lightning in 2024. The big winger was excellent last season, splitting time between the USHL and high school hockey. Burrows plays a mature game, tough to separate from the puck and an excellent playmaker coming off the wall. There’s a definitive need for him to improve his skating and he’ll try to do that at the University of Denver this season.

12. Hugo Alnefelt

13. Jayson Shaugabay

One of the most skilled and creative players in Tampa’s system, Shaugabay opted to play a full season in the USHL last season before making the jump to the NCAA. This allowed the diminutive forward to continue to build strength so that he can take greater advantage of his offensive gifts. Shaugabay will now head to Minnesota-Duluth this year and will likely be given a good shot to play a key offensive role as a freshman.

14. Lucas Edmonds

After a strong rookie season in the AHL two years ago, last season was a step back for Edmonds. No question, he’s a talented playmaker. However, there’s a strong need for him to upgrade his physical tools still to be a more consistent pro. 2024/25 is going to be a critical season for his development. A qualifying offer is likely dependent on his performance and progress.

15. Gabriel Szturc

The Lightning have had some good success signing free agents out of the CHL and the team dipped into that pool again a few times last year. Czech pivot and former Kelowna Rocket captain Gabriel Szturc is one such player. He’s a competitive, two-way, playmaker who, ignoring the cliche, plays much larger than his size. He projects as a versatile bottom six forward for Tampa Bay.

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #29 Tampa Bay Lightning – Organizational Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Player Profiles - Brock Otten, Team Overview - Robert Howard — Tue, 28 May 2024 20:15:54 +0000

240102 Isaac Howard of USA during the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship quarter final game between USA and Latvia on January 2, 2024 in Gothenburg.
Photo: Carl Sandin / BILDBYRÅN / kod CS / CS0475

They are only two seasons removed from a Stanley Cup Final appearance, following back-to-back cup wins. Two first-round exits in a row have many analysts questioning whether the window to win is closing. GM Julien Brisebois has been at the helm for the success and has been clear he still very much believes in this core to become champions once again and has repeatedly pushed his chips to the center of the table, trading future for the present. They are one of only two teams with no graduated prospects in the last five years. They do not pick until the fifth round in 2024 and have already moved their 2025 pick in a massive package of picks for Tanner Jeannot. Their 2024 pick was used in a package (including a 2023 1st round pick and other pieces) for Brandon Hagel.

Jeannot is 26 years old, and a UFA at the end of the season, while Hagel is 25, and has subsequently signed an eight-year extension with the team. They join a core group that is not as old as reports would have you believe. 34-year-old Steven Stamkos and his free agency will dominate the news over the offseason. Victor Hedman is 33 years old but showed he still has a lot to offer this season after a down year in 2022-23. If Stamkos does sign elsewhere, it will free up valuable cap space. An issue that has been a continuous challenge for the organization. The Lightning are focused on winning with this core. They include one of the best players in the world in Nikita Kucherov, who is only 30 years old, and elite goaltender Andrei Vasilevsky at 29, along with 28-year-old Brayden Point, and 25-year-old Mikhail Sergachev (injured this past season). You have a core that is elite and knows how to win. With or without Stamkos, Tampa will be a contender for a few years yet.

RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Ethan Gauthier	RW	19	5-11/175	Drummondville (QMJHL)	`23(37th)	64	36	35	71	42
2	Isaac Howard	LW	20	5-10/185	Michigan State (B1G)	`22(31st)	36	8	28	36	10
3	Niko Huuhtanen	RW	20	6-2/205	Jukurit (Fin-Liiga)	`21(224th)	52	19	27	46	46
4	Gage Goncalves	C	23	6-1/170	Syracuse (AHL)	`20(62nd)	69	13	45	58	43
5	Max Crozier	D	24	6-1/195	Syracuse (AHL)	`19(120th)	49	4	17	21	43
5	Max Crozier	D	24	6-1/195	Tampa Bay (NHL)	`19(120th)	13	0	2	2	7
6	Declan Carlile	D	23	6-2/190	Syracuse (AHL)	FA(3/22)	61	7	20	27	26
7	Hugo Alnefelt	G	22	6-3/195	Syracuse (AHL)	`19(71st)	30	14	8	2.76	0.893
8	Jack Finley	C	21	6-6/215	Syracuse (AHL)	`20(57th)	52	13	19	32	29
9	Dylan Duke	LW	21	5-10/180	Michigan (B1G)	`21(126th)	41	26	23	49	30
10	Daniil Pylenkov	D	23	6-1/195	Dynamo Moskva (KHL)	`21(196th)	67	7	22	29	18
11	Dyllan Gill	D	19	6-1/180	Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)	`22(223rd)	12	1	8	9	2
12	Jayson Shaugabay	RW	18	5-9/155	Green Bay (USHL)	`23(115th)	62	15	40	55	12
13	Lucas Edmonds	RW	23	5-10/180	Syracuse (AHL)	`22(86th)	45	9	7	16	6
14	Connor Kurth	RW	20	5-11/205	Minnesota (B1G)	`22(192nd)	37	7	14	21	14
15	Roman Schmidt	D	21	6-5/210	Kit-Kgn (OHL)	`21(96th)	47	8	24	32	62

1. Ethan Gauthier, RW, Drummondville Voltigeurs (QMJHL)

Ethan Gauthier, the son of former NHL defender Denis Gauthier and the 37th overall pick in last year’s draft, had another successful season in the QMJHL, this time with Drummondville after an offseason trade. The physically assertive forward plays a pro-style game that revolves around being able to earn touches between the hash marks. He drives the net, forechecks hard, and has continued to round out his game as a two-way player. He also shoots the puck well and his goal-scoring ability is the component of his offensive arsenal that likely translates the best to the pro level. To be an effective pro, he continues to work on his skating, working to become more explosive and agile. He’ll return to the QMJHL next season and should be one of the league’s top forwards as a 20-year-old. Depending on the development of his off puck play and skating, he could be NHL ready, sooner, rather than later.

2. Isaac Howard, LW, Michigan State University (NCAA)

Isaac Howard, the team’s only first round selection in the last four years, had a terrific sophomore season after hitting the transfer portal last offseason. Howard shifted from Minnesota-Duluth to Michigan State, and it had a very positive impact on his development. He led the Spartans in scoring this year and also played a crucial role for the United States at the WJC’s, helping them capture gold. He was noticeably stronger on the puck this year, helping him take greater advantage of his strong skating ability to generate scoring chances. He’s a very dangerous player on the counterattack, and despite his low goal total at Michigan State, actually possesses high upside as a goal scorer because of his quick release. Howard will return to Michigan State next year as a junior and he should be considered a preseason candidate for the Hobey Baker. Without question, he has the highest upside of any player in Tampa’s system.

3. Niko Huuhtanen, RW, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

Niko Huuhtanen has continued on the terrific development path that he started after a breakout season with Everett of the WHL in 2022. Last year he was the rookie of the year in Liiga and this year he led Jukurit in scoring. The big, power forward remains unsigned, but there has to be a strong chance that he signs soon and plays next year in North America again. Huuhtanen is a throwback power winger who plays a very heavy game. He’s a relentless physical player who is still learning how to walk the line in terms of discipline. However, he is most effective when he plays the power game, dominating the wall and the net front area. He is a prolific goal scorer too, thanks to a very heavy release and one timer. His positive development curve has put him on a path to become a quality middle six option for the Lightning in the near future.

4. Gage Goncalves, C, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

It’s been a long road for Goncalves. The former WHL standout has now played three seasons in the AHL, improving in each of them. He led Syracuse in scoring by a significant margin this year and finally earned a cup of coffee with the Lightning. The two-way pivot has proven to be a versatile pro. He plays an intelligent game at both ends, excelling on and off the puck. His attention to detail as a defensive player is likely going to be the thing that gets him into the NHL in a depth role before he carves out a larger one. As an offensive player, his vision and playmaking ability stand out most. He understands how to alter pace to manipulate defenses and is hard on pucks to help his line prolong offensive zone time. Next year, He will need to pass through waivers in order to go to the AHL, so it seems likely that if he has a good camp, he will be given a bottom six role.

5. Max Crozier, D, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

The Lightning have to be ecstatic about what Max Crozier has shown this year after turning pro. Earlier this season he did not look out of place in Tampa Bay when the Lightning were having serious injury issues on the blueline. Closing out the year in the AHL, he has been a near point per game defender. Full of confidence, we’re seeing the full scope of the impact that he can have on the game at both ends. The 6’ 2”, right shot defender is one of those players who does a lot of things well. He defends well thanks to an aggressive approach, a long reach, and good mobility. He takes away space from opposing forwards and defends tight spaces well thanks to his physical assertiveness. He makes a clean exit pass and has flashed an ability to quarterback the powerplay, with a strong ability to get shots through traffic. While he might not have significant NHL upside, he can be a stable #4 or 5 defender for many years.

6. Declan Carlile, D, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

A second-year pro after a strong performance at Merrimack College, Carlile is a standout in the defensive end. He projects as a quality stay at home defender at the NHL level and he may be ready for an NHL roster spot as early as next season. He possesses the size. He has the reach. He is mobile. He brings physicality. He owns an active stick, but is also aggressive in taking away space. Carlile looks like someone who can help anchor a penalty killing unit in the NHL. As an offensive player, his heavy point shot helps to generate scoring chances or goals and he can make a good exit pass, but he is at his best when he keeps things simple. Much like Max Crozier, he looks like a long time NHL defender for Tampa Bay, but probably tops out as a third pairing type.

7. Hugo Alnefelt, G, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

Expectations were pretty high for Alnefelt a few years ago when he made the jump from the SHL to the AHL in Tampa’s system. At the time, he was considered one of the top European goaltending prospects. Since then, his development has stagnated to a certain degree. He hasn’t been awful for Syracuse, but he also hasn’t shown the kind of growth you would expect from a future NHL netminder. He has the tools to be one, but consistency has remained an issue for him. However, without much else in the system at the moment, Alnefelt remains the team’s top option for the future behind Vasilevsky. He will compete for the back-up job next year but does still have another year of waiver eligibility remaining. That means he probably returns to Syracuse, where Tampa will be hoping he finally takes that next step as one of the AHL’s top netminders.

8. Jack Finley, C, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

The massive center has taken a nice step forward in his second pro season with Syracuse. Teams have to be patient with bigger forwards as they grow into their frame and he has been no different. He dominated down low at the WHL level before turning pro but had to continue to upgrade his strength and conditioning in order to do that at the AHL level. Behind the net is his office and he has very good vision coming off the wall and the cycle. Finley has also had to adjust to the pace of the pro game, especially as an only average skater. He’s likely still a bit away from making an impact in Tampa Bay, but the Lightning have to be hoping that he can continue to develop into an Adam Lowry kind of high end third line center in the future.

9. Dylan Duke, C, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

On a Michigan team full of potential front end NHL players, Duke stood out consistently for all the right reasons this year, finishing third in scoring and first in goals on the Wolverines. It was a very promising junior season for the diminutive pivot. He has always been a highly skilled playmaker who creates time and space for himself with his hands, but upgrades to his strength, off puck play, shot, and skating really upgraded his projection as a pro. Somewhat surprisingly, Duke decided to turn pro, signing with Tampa Bay recently. It might have been wise for him to return to Michigan to continue to upgrade his physical tools; he would have had a shot at being one of the better players in college hockey next year. While he may still be a bit of a long shot given his lack of high-end physical tools, his upside remains intriguing. Outside of Isaac Howard, no one in this system has the offensive upside that he possesses.

10. Daniil Pylenkov, D, Dynamo Moskva (KHL)

Daniil Pylenkov’s development has been steady since the Lightning drafted him in 2021 in his second last year of eligibility. Now 23, Pylenkov has emerged as one of the top young defensemen in the KHL. He still has a year remaining on his KHL deal so he won’t be coming over next year, but after that? He could be an option for Tampa as a bottom pairing defender. Pylenkov is certainly not a flashy player. However, he’s a very crafty one. He makes a clean exit. He is a great stick on puck defender. He makes sound decisions with his reads with and without the puck. His NHL upside is likely limited, but the progression of his offensive game in the KHL does suggest that his projection could continue to improve.

PROSPECT CRITERIA: Players under 26 years of age as of 9/15/2024 who have appeared in less than 60 games (30 for goalies) and less than 25 in one season (25 for goalies).

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #32

Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt and Josh Bell — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 18:59:22 +0000

Top 20 Tampa Bay Lightning Prospects

1. Isaac Howard

One of the more recent additions to the Tampa Bay Lightning’s prospect pool, Howard was drafted 31st overall in 2022, after putting up 82 points in 60 games with the USNTDP, as well as an impressive 11-point performance at U18s en route to a silver medal for Team USA. Last season, he moved on to the NCAA’s University of Minnesota-Duluth where he didn’t find that same offensive production and obviously wasn’t happy with his season as he has since transferred to Michigan State University for 2023-24. Howard is a speedy and creative playmaker who plays a strong small-area game. He can be a bit inconsistent in his effort level, but with the right coaching and development, he can reach his ceiling as a dependable second-line winger in the NHL. Lightning fans may need to be patient with him through his development as he works the kinks out.

2. Ethan Gauthier

After pumping in 6 goals and 7 points in 5 games for Canada at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, all eyes were on Gauthier’s QMJHL performance last season with the Sherbrooke Phoenix. Ultimately, the righty shot improved upon the 18 goals and 39 points of his freshman campaign into 30 goals and 69 points for his draft year, adding another 11 points in the playoffs and being named “Best Professional Prospect” in the Q for his efforts. A relentless pursuer of the puck who forces his opponents to make quick decisions, particularly on the forecheck, Gauthier possesses a smooth, mechanically-sound stride that utilizes sound crossovers and applies quick acceleration to create opportunities for his line. This is the fundamental strength and basis of his game that should allow for an NHL career in some capacity. Tampa Bay selected him 37th overall this summer with the hope that his keen understanding of how to apply his tools for generating offense will have him looking like a top-line support winger who plays a heavy game. His QMJHL rights were dealt to Drummondville, where the Lightning organization hopes he’ll enjoy a dominating offensive season before going pro.

3. Niko Huuhtanen

From being the last player selected in 2021 to the number three prospect in the Lightning system is a testament to both the development of Huuhtanen as well as an admission that he was drafted too low. The Finnish forward was selected after his second full season in the U20 SM-sarja, producing nearly a point-per-game. After being selected, he came overseas to the WHL’s Everett Silvertips where he impressed, leading all rookies in goals with 37 in just 65 games. He returned to Finland last season, but this time to the Liiga, where he again led all rookies in goals (17) as well as points (30). He has pro size and plays a hard, physical game while boasting a heavy shot. Huuhtanen is well on his way to slotting in as a bottom six contributor but could play up the lineup if called upon.

4. Jack Finley

It’s hard to miss Finley on the ice, standing at 6- 6” and 223 pounds. The Lightning took notice, selecting him 57th overall in 2020. He was coming off a strong sophomore season in the WHL with the Spokane Chiefs but lost almost the entire 2020-21 season due to a torn labrum. He returned to the WHL for one final season, taking time to get back up to speed but looking strong down the stretch. He moved up to the AHL’s Syracuse Crunch last season, again taking time to adjust but fitting in well as the season wore on. He’s likely not going to be a high-skill player but should bring strong possession ability and be a net-front presence. He needs to improve his skating and to learn how to use his size to his advantage, but he’s a raw, intriguing prospect. Finley could be a bottom-six forward when all is said and done.

5. Jack Thompson

Thompson was another product of the 2020 NHL Draft, 93rd overall, after doubling his scoring output in his second OHL season. He headed overseas to play in the HockeyEttan during the cancelled 2020-21 season, contributing a point-per-game as a defender. He came back to the OHL in 2021-22 as the captain of the Sudbury Wolves before a trade to the Soo. Thompson’s season including leading all OHL defenders in goals (21) and helping Canada to a World Juniors gold medal. He jumped to the AHL last season, looking extremely comfortable in the process. He’s capable of playing big minutes, thrives when getting involved offensively, and has shown steps forward on the defensive side of the puck as well. He’s a pretty well-rounded player without excelling in one specific area and has the potential to be a bottom-four, two-way presence, especially if he can maintain his offensive success at the pro levels.

6. Hugo Alnefelt

It feels as though Alnefelt has been on the cusp of the NHL ever since he was selected in the third round by the Lightning in 2019. The goaltender was coming off a good season in the J20 SuperElit, while standing out internationally in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, winning a silver medal, as well as in the U18s, winning a gold. The next two seasons were spent in the SHL while appearing in back-to-back World Juniors. Alnefelt moved to North America in 2021-22 and struggled in his first season, before looking more comfortable with the Crunch last season. When he’s on, he angles out shooters well and is quite agile in the net. He controls rebound well and has good athleticism. He’s been quite inconsistent thus far and can let in soft shots at times. He could become a reliable backup in the NHL and could make that move relatively soon.

7. Gage Goncalves

Goncalves has followed a steady trajectory in his development, showing some improving each season. After two seasons in the WHL, the Lightning took note, using the 62nd pick in 2020 to select him. Goncalves returned to the WHL for one more season in 2020-21, as the alternate captain, earning his first NHL contract and moving to the AHL in 2021-22. His professional transition was rather seamless and looked even better in his second go-round last season. As seems to be a theme with Lightning prospects, he’s a competitive forward who never quits on a play. He’s a strong playmaker with a knack for feeding the slot, plays a smart game, and rarely makes a mistake. Goncalves seems well on his way to an NHL roster where he should be able to secure a spot as a bottom six player who could play up if needed. The Lightning have definitely been looking for players of his specific type in recent years.

8. Lucas Edmonds

Originally eligible for the 2019 NHL Draft, Lucas Edmonds finally heard his name called in the 2022, 86th overall. After playing in Sweden in his first two draft eligible seasons, mainly in the J20 SuperElit, he split time between the HockeyAllsvenskan and HockeyEttan in 2020-21 and decided a change was needed, moving to the OHL’s Kingston Frontenacs in 2021-22, where he put up 113 points in just 68 games, leading the league in assists (79). The Lightning bit, immediately signing him to an entry-level deal, and bringing him to the AHL. Edmonds played well last season, employing an intelligent, well-rounded game. A playmaker who knows how to create offense, his path has been an interesting one, but he likely tops out as an AHLer and call-up option. That said, there is a reasonable chance that he finds a regular role as a bottom-line winger as well, considering his quick adjustment to the AHL.

9. Dylan Duke

High energy, highly competitive prospects give themselves a better chance to make it and the Lightning are betting on just that with Duke. He was selected 126th overall in 2021 after a point-per-game season with the USNTDP, which included being named a top-three player in the U18s. He moved on to the NCAA with the University of Michigan in 2021-22, falling victim to a lack of ice time on a deep Wolverines team, and seeing his production dip in the process. He took on a bigger role last season, increasing in offense and earning the call to Team USA at the World Juniors, winning bronze. Duke is a tenacious winger with only one gear – high! He battles hard, always working to get the puck back on his team’s sticks. If everything pans out, he could be a very entertaining middle-six winger.

10. Jayson Shaugabay

Shaugabay is a shifty and highly deceptive playmaking winger with significant offensive upside. When playing in the Minnesota high school loop, he was the best player in the State, earning the coveted Mr. Hockey award for the season. He also started and finished the year with USHL Green Bay and was a standout for the Gamblers too, with one of the highest point per game averages on the team, albeit in a smaller sample size of games played. Shaugabay was one of the most skilled and creative players with the puck from the 2023 draft class. He routinely creates extra time and space for himself by beating the first and second layers of pressure, turning would-be defenders into pylons. That said, there are a lot of areas to his game that will need work for him to reach his high ceiling, particularly his skating and strength on the puck, especially given his size. Minnesota-Duluth should be a great place for him, a program that tends to draw players who are more polished off the puck and incorporate power into their game, which could help his creative style flourish while transforming him into a more well-rounded player.

11. Declan Carlilie

There is a very quiet effectiveness to Carlile’s game. Efficient at both ends, he can start the breakout or squash the opposition’s. After a very solid first full year in the AHL, the former Merrimack defender has put himself in contention for a roster spot with Tampa Bay.

12. Daniil Pylenkov

Pylenkov is quickly becoming one of the better young defenders in Russia after a strong KHL season. A standout in the defensive end, he could probably play a third pairing role already. However, he still has two years remaining on his KHL deal and there are questions as to whether he’s actually interested in coming over.

13. Cole Koepke

A goal scoring winger with some jam to his game, Koepke has yet to live up to the high expectations that the Lightning had for him through two pro seasons. He struggled in a cup of coffee with Tampa last season, but there’s still some hope that he can be a quality third line option, even though he’s already 25.

14. Nick Malik

It was a step backwards for Malik last year after he lost his starting role with KooKoo due to inconsistent play. The son of former NHL defender Marek Malik, Nick is a tremendous athlete, but he is still working to refine his approach in the crease.

15. Roman Schmidt

Schmidt is a massive defender who also happens to be fairly mobile for his size. After a few seasons in the OHL with Kitchener, he will turn pro this year. His focus will be on improving his puck management.

16. Gabriel Fortier

The offensive upside is not significant, but Fortier will likely be an NHL player in some capacity in the future due to his tenaciousness and the energy he brings in whatever role that is asked of him. He could be a full time fourth liner this upcoming season.

17. Max Crozier

Even with some decent offensive production at Providence, Crozier’s future in the NHL will probably be in more of a defensive role similar to the way Nick Perbix quickly rose through the system. The right shot defender moves well and brings a physical element. He will play with Syracuse this year.

18. Connor Kurth

A former USHL standout, Kurth is a very talented offensive player. However, his freshman production was pretty pedestrian as he got buried in the Gophers lineup. Tampa Bay is hoping that he can earn a larger role as a sophomore.

19. Waltteri Merela

Signed out of Finland this offseason, Merela is a big winger with strong puck protection skills. He helped Tappara capture Liiga and Champions League titles last year and could easily make the Lightning lineup out of camp.

20. Jack Harvey

Taken by Tampa in his final year of draft eligibility, Harvey will head to Boston University this fall after a few good seasons with Chicago of the USHL. His off-puck play improved a lot this year, prompting his selection.

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #32 – TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING

Josh Bell — Thu, 11 May 2023 23:08:10 +0000

Prospect System Rank – 32nd

Two Stanley Cups and a final appearance last season was well worth spending future assets for current needs. The Lightning has consistently emptied the prospect cupboard each season successfully in search of championships. They are one of two teams who have not graduated any drafted prospects from the last five drafts as a result. This season was no different as they cleared whatever they had left in the tank to acquire 25-year-old Tanner Jeannot for Cal Foote, 2023 3rd round pick, 2023 4th round pick, 2023 5th round pick, 2024 2nd round pick, 2025 1st round pick (Top 10 protected). A rich haul for a restricted free agent at season’s end. He is presumably part of their plans going forward. They enter the current draft with only a 6^th and 7^th round pick.

Their current group of prospects do not offer any immediate help as they are still focused on winning for the next few seasons. The highest ranked prospect is Isaac Howard who is #119 overall (their only 1^st round pick since 2019 – Nolan Foote who has been subsequently traded and they have only two in the top 200 (Niko Huuhtanen #189). They have been known for their development and have had success filling from within without high picks. Cole Koepke is the best bet to add something from their depth but look for Lightning to continue to look for veteran depth adds at the expense of youth. They do not have many chips left to play with regards to picks.

Isaac Howard

One of the more recent additions to the Tampa Bay Lightning’s prospect pool, Isaac Howard was drafted 31st overall in the 2022 NHL Draft. This was after putting up 82 points in 60 games with the USNTDP, and an impressive 11-point performance at U18s en route to a silver medal for Team USA. This season, he’s moved on to the NCAA’s University of Minnesota-Duluth where he didn’t find that same offensive production and obviously wasn’t happy with his season as he’s transferring to Michigan State University for 2023-24. Howard is a speedy, creative, playmaker that plays a strong small-area game. He can be a bit inconsistent in his effort level at times, but with the right coaching and development, he can become a dependable second-line winger in the NHL. Lightning fans may need to be patient with him though as he develops and works the kinks out.

2. Niko Huuhtanen

From being the last player selected in the 2021 NHL Draft to the number two prospect in the Lightning system is a testament to both the development of Niko Huuhtanen as well as the fact that the forward was probably drafted too low. The Finnish forward was selected after his second full season in the U20 SM-sarja, playing at nearly a point-per-game clip. After being selected, he came overseas to the WHL’s Everett Silverstips where he impressed, leading all rookies in goals with 37 in just 65 games. He’s returned to Finland this season but to the Liiga, where he led all rookies in goals (17) and points (30). He has pro size and plays a hard, physical game while boasting a heavy shot. He’s well on his way to slotting in as a bottom six contributor but could play up the lineup if called upon.

3. Jack Finley

It’s hard to miss Jack Finley on the ice, standing at 6-foot-6 and 223 pounds. The Lightning took notice, selecting him 57th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft. He was coming off a strong sophomore season with the Spokane Chiefs of the WHL but lost almost the entire 2020-21 season with a torn labrum. He returned to the WHL for one last season, taking some time to get back up to speed but looking strong down the stretch. He moved up to the AHL’s Syracuse Crunch this season, again taking some time to adjust but fitting in well. He’s likely not going to be a high-skill player but should be a player that can bring strong possession and be a net-front presence. He needs to improve his skating and he needs to learn how to use his size to his advantage, but he’s a raw, intriguing prospect. He could be a bottom six forward when all is said and done.

4. Jack Thompson

Jack Thompson was also selected in the 2020 NHL Draft, 93rd overall after doubling his output in his second OHL season. He headed overseas to play in the HockeyEttan during the cancelled 2020-21 season, going a point-per-game as a defender. He came back to the OHL in 2021-22 as the captain of the Sudbury Wolves before getting traded to the Soo Greyhounds. He led all defenders in goals (21) and helped Canada to a World Juniors gold medal in the process. He’s jumped to the AHL this season, looking extremely comfortable in the process. He’s capable of playing big minutes, thrives at getting involved offensively, and has shown steps forward on the defensive side of the puck. He’s a pretty well-rounded player without excelling in one specific area. He has the potential to be a bottom-four, two-way presence, especially if he can maintain his offensive success at the pro levels.

5. Hugo Alnefelt

It’s felt as though Hugo Alnefelt has been on the cusp of the NHL ever since he was selected by the Lightning in 2019, 71st overall. The goaltender was coming off a good season in the J20 SuperElit, while standing out internationally in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, winning a silver medal, and in the U18s, winning a gold. The next two seasons were spent in the SHL while appearing in back-to-back World Juniors. He moved to North America in 2021-22 and struggled in the AHL before settling in this season with the Crunch. When he’s on, he angles out shooters well and is quite agile in the net. He controls rebound well and has good athleticism. He’s been quite inconsistent though and can let in some soft shots at times. He could become a reliable backup in the NHL and could make that move relatively soon.

6. Dylan Duke

Prospects that play a high energy, highly competitive game tend to make it and the Lightning are betting on just that in Dylan Duke. They selected him 126th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft after a point-per-game season with the USNTDP and being named a top-three player in the U18s. He moved on to the NCAA and the University of Michigan in 2021-22, falling victim to playing on a deep Wolverines team and seeing his production dip. He took on a bigger role this season, seeing a noticeable increase in offense and getting the call to Team USA at the World Juniors, winning bronze. He’s a tenacious winger that only has one gear - go. He battles hard, always working to get the puck back on his team’s sticks. If everything pans out, he could be a very entertaining middle-six winger which is great value for where they drafted him.

7. Cole Koepke

It’s been a long road for Cole Koepke, drafted way back in 2018, 183rd overall. But the Lightning have stuck with him, keeping him in the system. They selected him out of the USHL, taking a flier on him later in the draft. He moved on to the NCAA’s University of Minnesota-Duluth, where he spent three seasons, winning a National Championship in his rookie year. The Lightning liked what they saw, signing him to his entry-level deal and moving him to the AHL in 2021-22 where he had a strong season, arguably looking better than he did in college. His production has dipped this season, but he’s earned time in the NHL as well, already proving to be a success considering where he was drafted. He’s likely in his role now as a call-up option but could carve out a bottom six spot for himself at some point.

8. Gage Goncalves

Gage Goncalves has followed a steady trajectory in his development, steadily improving each season. After two seasons in the WHL, the Lightning saw this, using the 62nd overall pick in 2020 to call his name. He returned to the WHL for one more season as the alternate captain, earning his first NHL contract and moving to the AHL in 2021-22. He stepped right into the league without skipping a step and has looked even better this season. As seems to be a theme with Lightning prospects, he’s a competitive forward that never quits on a play. He’s a strong playmaker with a knack for feeding the slot. He plays a smart game and rarely makes a mistake. He seems well on his way to an NHL roster where he should be able to steal a spot as a bottom six player that could play up if needed. The Lightning have definitely been looking for a specific type of player in recent years.

9. Daniil Pylenkov

Yet another late draft pick, the Lightning selected Daniil Pylenkov 196th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft as an overager. At that time, he had already completed his second full season in the KHL, where he’s been stuck ever since. He had a strong season this year, especially after being traded from SKA St. Petersburg to Severstal Cherepovets and seeing his minutes increase dramatically. He’s a physical defender that keeps an active stick and isn’t afraid to dive in front of a shot. He has some sneaky offensive ability too, mainly through his playmaking. But in the NHL, it’s his defensive game that shines. He’s developed well since being selected and looks poised to earn his entry-level deal. Expect him to spend some time in the AHL first, but he should be a call-up option fairly quickly and could slot in as a bottom-pairing defender.

10. Lucas Edmonds

Originally eligible for the 2019 NHL Draft, Lucas Edmond finally heard his name called in the 2022 NHL Draft, 86th overall. After playing in Sweden in his draft year, mainly in the J20 SuperElit, and then again in 2019-20, he split time between the HockeyAllsvenskan and HockeyEttan in 2020-21 and decided a change was needed. He moved to the OHL’s Kingston Frontencas in 2021-22, putting up 113 points in just 68 games, leading the league in assists (79). The Lighting bit, immediately signing him to an entry-level deal and bringing him to the AHL. He’s played well this season, playing an intelligent, well-rounded game. He’s a playmaker that knows how to create offense. His path is an interesting one, but he likely remains an AHLer that could be a call-up option throughout his career. However, he could be a bottom-line winger as well, based on how well he’s adjusted in the AHL.

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING – Top 20 Prospects

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 21:30:56 +0000

1 - Isaac Howard LW

Isaac Howard is an interesting prospect, as, just looking at it on paper, his selection near the back of the first round of the NHL draft is a bit confusing. His production is there, as he scored at a far-above point-per-game rate at the U.S. National Team Development Program. Howard also plays with the skill level of a top-end offensive prospect, with the playmaking skill, puckhandling, and skating ability. The tools are all there with Howard. But the concerns with his profile, and the factors that likely contributed to his selection late in the first round, are largely based on his style. Howard’s offensive tools are strong, but the way he uses them can be, at times, inefficient. The best offensive prospects in hockey are the ones who are able to reach a different level of thinking when it comes to each shift. Shane Wright, for example, is exceptional at leveraging his space on the ice without the puck to create space for his teammates. Kent Johnson, as another example, has, like Howard, a high skill level, but he deploys that skill level with such ingenuity, creativity, and unpredictability that he’ll find ways to remain productive even against talented NHL defensemen. Howard’s skill level rivals the best prospects in his age group, but he’s a bit behind on how he actually utilizes his wide array of talents. He’s relentless and willing to attack the difficult middle of the ice, but he doesn’t deceive his opponents or manipulate play the way other prospects can. Howard can create a significant number of chances for himself and his linemates, but one wonders how effective he’ll be at higher levels of hockey when he needs to find a way to remain productive with two or three chances a game, rather than ten. Thankfully, though, Howard will head to college where he’ll have a long runway to refine his offensive approach and make it more translatable to the pro game. He has all the tools to become an NHL scorer, he just needs to improve his toolbox. - EH

2 - Jack Thompson D

The 93rd overall selection in the 2020 NHL Draft, Jack Thompson had a great season in the OHL split between two teams, being an impact player on both sides of the puck. The former 30th overall selection in the 2018 OHL Draft had a good rookie year, finishing with 16 points (6G,10A) in 52 games. During the 2019-2020 season, Thompson took a step in his development and became a very effective defenseman for the Wolves, leading the teams’ blue line in points with 32 (13G,19A) in 63 games while still being solid defensively. During the 2020-2021 season while the OHL was shutdown due to Covid-19, Thompson made the decision like others to go play in Europe. Thompson played in the HockeyEttan and was very productive, finishing with 18 points (9G,9A) in 18 games. Thompson also got the opportunity like some others to play in the AHL, which was an exception made because of the OHL being shutdown. In the 2021-2022 season, Thompson had a great year, being a top producing defenseman on both the Wolves and the Greyhounds. Altogether between both teams he finished with 57 points (21G,36A) in 65 games, which was 7th in the league for points by a defenseman, tied for 1st in the league for goals by a defenseman and 4th on the team in points. Thompson’s best assets are his shot and hockey sense. Thompson is an offensive threat, especially on the power play with his cannon of a shot. He has a great shot, and he understands how to use it, getting shots through traffic and on net consistently. He has great awareness in all three zones and displays smart decision making on each shift, staying very responsible. Going into the 2022-2023 season, Thompson should make a jump into the AHL and be an effective asset, especially on the power play. - DK

3 - Nick Perbix D

A sixth-round pick of the Tampa Bay Lightning at the 2017 NHL draft, Perbix has taken the long road to pro hockey. He spent the year after he was drafted in the USHL before beginning a four-year collegiate career at St. Cloud State, a career that would end with him graduating and signing an entry-level contract with the Lightning. Impressively, Perbix stepped into the AHL and looked the part almost immediately. Despite having spent most of his season in college, Perbix ended up playing a major role for the Crunch as they solidified their place in the AHL playoffs. Head coach Benoit Groulx trusted Perbix to play top-four minutes, significant power play time, and even time on the penalty kill, an indication of just how pro-ready Perbix was right after he left college. Now 24 years old and entering his first full professional season, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the six-foot-four Perbix exit training camp having beaten out teammates Darren Raddysh and Sean Day as the Lighting’s eighth defenseman on their depth chart. Perbix isn’t a finished product, but he knows what he’s good at and knows when he needs to not be noticed. Despite his impressive size, Perbix may not have a future handling the toughest defensive minutes. Instead, he could thrive in a role as a depth defenseman who offers value in transition, pace-pushing play, and doesn’t look out of place in his own zone. - EH

4 - Maxim Groshev RW

Maxim Groshev is a mobile, hard-working forward with solid finishing ability, yet his upside looks rather limited, and the best-case projection would be a bottom-six NHL winger, so he is a prospect of note without being intriguing. Even so, he is the type of player who is really valuable for the postseason and thus a good fit for the Lightning organization. Last season was disappointing for Groshev, as he failed to earn a regular role with his KHL team and only got the ice time he needs to develop after he was demoted to play in the VHL. On the other hand, he is still only 20 years old, and he did look legit at the VHL level, so the year wasn’t too disappointing. As of this writing, he has been producing very well in the KHL preseason, and there are still more than enough reasons to remain positive about his future. We absolutely expect Groshev to break through with a fulltime KHL role this year. It should also be mentioned that this is the last year of his current KHL contract and with the way things are going, there is a solid possibility that both the Lightning and Groshev will agree that the best way to further his development might be playing for the Syracuse Crunch in the AHL with the hopes using that opportunity to springboard an NHL career. - VF

5 - Jack Finley C

A massive pivot, and the son of former NHL defender Jeff Finley, Jack was a second-round selection of Tampa in 2020. Finley can flat out dominate down low and when working the cycle with how difficult he is to separate from the puck. Below the goal line is his office and he works feverishly to prolong possession and to tire out opposing defenders. He has good, but not great hands, however, he does have good vision when working below the goal line to spot open teammates. Finley is also an intelligent two-way player who uses his size and reach effectively in the defensive zone to be disruptive. The key for him moving forward is to continue to improve his quickness and overall skating ability. It did improve some as a WHL player, but not to the point where it needs to be for him to be a quality pro. Additionally, there has to be some concern that Finley never hit the point per game mark as a WHL player over four seasons (even if he basically lost one due to the pandemic). His offensive upside might be fairly limited moving forward as a pro, with the best-case scenario being that Finley develops into an Adam Lowry type of player for the Lightning in the future. - BO

6 - Hugo Alnefelt G

After the 20-21 season – which saw Tampa Bay’s 2019 3^rd rounder lose the starting job on a club facing relegation out of SHL – put a damper on his prospect status, Alnefelt’s 21-22 AHL season once again left much to be desired. His record wasn’t necessarily anything to worry about, but his GAA and save percentage both fell short. In addition, he gained plenty of competition from Tampa’s Russian 2020 6^th rounder, Amir Miftakhov, for the back-up spot to veteran Max Lagacé, who was clearly AHL Syracuse’s go-to goaltender. The lack of playing time for the 6’3” hulk saw him get several (ultimately winless) outings with Orlando of the ECHL, putting up even worse GAA and save percentage statistics. Several years ago, Alnefelt’s star was quite bright, and it was felt that he was close to being the organization’s top prospect. That has since changed drastically and although he is still regarded as a solid goaltending prospect who will simply need playing time, the organization added Nick Malik this past summer, a 20-year-old who is internationally experienced and excelled for KooKoo of the Finnish Liiga last season. With ideal size, Alnefelt is scheduled to be the full-time back-up, or 1B, for Syracuse this winter as Miftakhov has signed on with Kazan, so there is a chance for redemption. With Andrei Vasilevsky still considered among perhaps the top three goaltenders on the planet and ageless veteran Brian Elliot still trucking along in the back-up role, Alnefelt continues to have plenty of time to live up to the organization’s hopes. – CL

7 - Declan Carlile D

The Lightning have traded many picks and prospects in recent years as part of their chase of Stanley Cup rings, a chase that has been highly successful thus far. The result of these trades has been the Lightning need to use other avenues to add prospects to their system, and one way they’ve added some young talent has been through college free agency. An undrafted player, Carlile signed with the lightning last spring after finishing his season with Hockey East’s Merrimack College. At Merrimack, Carlile was a top-of-the-lineup defenseman who matched defensive prowess with offensive competence. Now with AHL Syracuse, Carlile’s game will likely be a bit more one-dimensional. Carlile is a six-foot-two defenseman who is at his best in his own zone. He’ll do anything to keep a puck from ending up at the back of his net, and he can at times be a ferocious physical presence. Carlile saw time on the Crunch’s penalty kill in his limited action last season and should have an expanded role there this coming year. Carlile’s defensive game is his calling card, and it should be good enough to allow him to be a trusted defensive defenseman for the Crunch next season. If he can find a way to squeeze some production out of his limited offensive toolbox, maybe he can become something more. Otherwise, his defensive game should be good enough to help him hold down an AHL job and maybe get some NHL games as a safe call-up option for the Lightning. - EH

8 - Gabriel Fortier C

Is Gabriel Fortier the next in a line of smaller, but impactful homegrown talents for the Lightning? Signs might be pointing to yes. Not only did Fortier earn a ten game callup last season in his first full pro year, but he proved to be an extremely impactful role player at the AHL level with Syracuse too. Tampa is always looking at ways to lower their cap number and that means banking on young players to step forward in checking line roles. Fortier’s game is tailored to do that. He is an animal on the forecheck, wreaking havoc with his speed and his tenaciousness. Fortier never seems to quit on a play and is already a competent two-way player who can handle penalty killing duties. How much offensive potential does Fortier have? He is not likely to be more than a quality third line player. There are some skill limitations at work here. The majority of his offensive chances are created through speed, hustle, and sound instincts. However, he should be able to carve out a nice career in that role. It would not be surprising to see him breaking camp with the Lightning this coming season and quickly earning the trust of Jon Cooper and his staff. At the very least, he should split the year between the NHL and AHL. - BO

9 - Gage Goncalves C

A late bloomer out of the Everett Silvertips program, there is a lot of hope internally that Goncalves can develop into the Lightning’s next lockdown third liner. His first pro season in Syracuse was a success as he finished fourth in goal scoring on the Crunch, while receiving significant powerplay time. The reason why the Crunch featured him on the man advantage so consistently has to do with his booming one timer and ability to control the half wall. However, he is more than just a pure shooter. He is a competitor at both ends and he has great instincts as a defensive player. As he becomes stronger, he should also become a physical standout in the defensive end who can be used in that aforementioned shutdown role. At this point, he looks like a more natural fit on the wing, but there is a chance they could shift him back to center for the upcoming year. He is versatile. This coming season Goncalves will return to the Crunch and the Lightning will be looking for him to take a step forward at both ends as a pro. If he does, he could position himself as a possible injury call up with an eye on a full-time role in 2023-24. - BO

10 - Cole Koepke LW

Already 24 years old, the Lightning have been very patient with Koepke’s development. He spent three years at the University of Minnesota-Duluth before finally turning pro last year. The goal scoring power winger turned in an impressive rookie AHL season, too. His 20 goals were good for third on the Crunch and he proved that his goal scoring ability from the collegiate level could translate well to the pro level. Armed with a heavy shot and a willingness to use his size physically, Koepke is a potential middle six, complementary goal scorer in the NHL. The key will be improving his speed and quickness. Although it should also be stated that Jon Cooper and the Lightning have found ways to use competitive forwards with footspeed issues, so long as they have other talents. Tampa Bay does not have a strong farm system at the moment, so Koepke will, undoubtedly be given a chance to be an NHL player at some point. Given his advanced age, that could occur as early as this season at some point. Otherwise, he can position himself with a chance the following year, so long as he continues to progress at the AHL level. - BO

11 - Simon Ryfors

There was definitely an adjustment period for Ryfors after signing last offseason from the SHL. He struggled to adapt to the AHL initially but was much better in the second half. Ryfors plays a high energy game and is strong away from the puck. Can he show more offensively in his second AHL season?

12 - Niko Huuhtanen

After a terrific WHL season with Everett, Huuhtanen has returned to Finland this year. The big ice will be great for him to continue to improve his quickness and overall skating ability. The big power forward owns a booming shot.

13 - Lucas Edmonds

Edmonds is a great success story from the OHL this past season. The late bloomer left Sweden and joined Kingston as an overager, becoming one of the league’s best and most consistent offensive players. His hands and offensive IQ are top notch, but he will need to continue to get quicker to transfer his production to the pro level.

14 - Roman Schmidt

The big defender has intriguing potential as an NHL blueliner. He is physical. His mobility is improving. He has a big point shot. He will return to Kitchener this year of the OHL and will look to become one of the league’s top two-way defenders.

15 - Daniil Pylenkov

The steady two-way defender is not flashy, but he is efficient at moving the puck and sound defensively. He has established himself as a KHL regular the last two years and could cross the pond in the near future if he shows continued growth.

16 - Nick Malik

Malik has slowly emerged as a quality goaltending prospect after finding ways to better harness his athleticism. He was one of Liiga’s top netminders last year and has firmly put a disastrous initial draft season behind him.

17 - Ilya Usau

The Lightning signed Usau as a free agent this offseason after a strong showing for Dinamo in the KHL and for Belarus internationally. The sturdy pivot is tough to separate from the puck and he is an adept passer. He’ll suit up in the AHL this season.

18 - Max Crozier

The talented powerplay quarterback is a mobile blueliner who is entering his senior season at Providence. The Lightning will be looking for him to take a step forward to become an elite NCAA, two-way blueliner this season.

19 - Dylan Duke

A skilled pivot and former U.S. NTDP’er, Duke was solid for Michigan in his freshman year. His upside remains high, but he will need to continue to focus his development on improving his quickness and strength on the puck.

20 - Eamon Powell

Thus far at the NCAA level, Powell’s development has been underwhelming and unspectacular. His feet are good, but he still hasn’t found the confidence to be a truly impactful two-way defender. Powell will return to Boston College for his junior season.

2021-22 TOP 15 PROSPECTS: TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING – RANK: #30 – TIER VI

McKeen's Hockey — Sat, 11 Sep 2021 12:00:17 +0000

Tampa Bay Lightning

#30 Tampa Bay - The other systems in this tier have a few high end guys. Not Tampa. Lots of depth, but all of it is low impact.

Taylor Raddysh (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire)

Alex Barre-Boulet

Barre Boulet is at the stage of his development where he has to prove that he's not just a great AHL player but an NHL player. Barré-Boulet has the same problem as many players: He has the talent to play in the pros, but he is not necessarily useful as a bottom six player. Does he fit into an already well-stocked squad like the Tampa Bay Lightning roster? After the team lost the better part of its bottom six this offseason, he may finally have his permanent opening.

Never drafted, his progress from junior hockey to the AHL has been better than most could hope for. Regardless, he continues to do what he's asked to do: produce offensively. There is only one step left for the young man from Montmagny. But there is no doubt that it is the highest of the steps to be taken. A consistent offensive player now, Barre Boulet has worked hard to improve his skating, as he always keeps his feet moving in the offensive zone. Obviously, he is plenty skilled and has terrific scoring instincts too. If he fails to convince the Lightning that he can be a full time NHL player, he should no doubt get a chance with another NHL organization. - BB

Samuel Walker

Perhaps the most surprising thing about Walker electing to return to Minnesota for a senior season is that the two-time captain seemed to see his progress stagnate last season, often a sign that his career would be best served by him finally turning pro, four years after Tampa took a seventh-round flyer on him out of Edina High School. He was already a late developer, spending a very rare extra year at home, playing for his local school, after being drafted, instead of taking the next step to a full season in the USHL (or even the BCHL), as most others do who are drafted out of high school and are not yet ready for NCAA hockey. Walker has certainly come a long way as a player since those days, even if his development is slowing down.

He has always been speedy with exciting playmaking chops. These days, after adding some muscle to his frame, he is more willing to play greasy, and brings two-way accountability to his team. These new(er) elements of his game will come in handy when he finally turns pro, even if he does so next summer as a free agent, as his skill game, while good, seemingly falls short of top six good. His approach to the game would fit well in a third line type role, playing with energy, giving the opposition more to worry about after the top six, and while playing some minutes on the penalty kill. - RW

Boris Katchouk

Simply put, Boris Katchouk’s first two seasons in the AHL were a disappointment. After a great final junior campaign that saw Katchouk as a first team OHL all-star, in addition to a WJC gold medallist (for Canada), many figured that he would move quickly through Tampa’s system because of his speed, strength, skill, and tenaciousness. That certainly has not been the case. However, this past season (Katchouk’s third in the AHL), he finally broke out, leading Syracuse in scoring and re-establishing himself as a high-end prospect for the Lightning.

While Katchouk’s goal scoring ability has not transferred to the pro level quite as expected, his combination of size, speed, sense has made him into a very effective AHL player, especially as he found confidence in his ability to carry the puck and lead the charge offensively this past year. No longer exempt from waivers, Katchouk will need to make the Lightning this year in a checking line role in order to avoid potentially being claimed by another organization. Considering that all three members of the Lightning’s exceptional third line have moved on, Katchouk could easily be someone targeted for filling those skates, given his similar style of play to the likes of Blake Coleman and Barclay Goodrow. - BO

Taylor Raddysh

Much like Boris Katchouk, Raddysh’s development as a pro player has not gone quite according to plan. Consistency has been an issue for the former Erie Otters (and Soo Greyhounds) star. However, again like Katchouk, he experienced a breakout AHL season in his third pro year and finished the season second in Syracuse scoring to Katchouk.

Raddysh’s best asset has always been his vision and awareness on the ice. His anticipation in the offensive zone is terrific and as such, he is the perfect complementary piece on a scoring line with how he can find soft spots in coverage or make calculated decisions with the puck. However, his lack of explosiveness as a skater has always been the one negative for Raddysh and it is what has prevented him from becoming an NHL player thus far. Additionally, Raddysh profiles as more of a scoring line forward than a checking line player as he is unquestionably more effective in the offensive end than the defensive end. Could he be a classic tweener? This upcoming NHL training camp will be a big one for Raddysh as he is no longer exempt from waivers. He will need to make a big push to earn a spot, proving that he can keep up with the pace that Tampa likes to play at. - BO

Hugo Alnefelt

For 20-year-old Hugo Alnefelt, it must be quite a relief to know he’ll be playing AHL hockey this upcoming season. The 20-21 season proved to be a bump in the road that has put a bit of a damper on his prospect status. For starters, he went from an impressive 10-7 record and 2.57 GAA in a back-up role in his rookie season in the SHL to a 5-16 record and 3.18 GAA in his second season as a 1B for HV71, which was relegated for the first time since gaining promotion to Sweden’s belle étage - in the 83-84 season!

This step back was accompanied by another as his ‘21 WJC performance paled considerably in comparison to his ‘20 performance, where he starred for Sweden with a 5-1 record, 2.12 GAA, and .924 save percentage. Ultimately, he made the dreaded hero-to-weak link transition as he managed solely a 2-2 record with a pedestrian .902 save percentage this past winter, finding himself allowing several almost unexplainable goals against at critical times. Alas, his star was too bright to this point in time to worry too much. There are still tools that are far above average, and his size is the ideal of the modern goaltender. He will now face a new challenge in the AHL, where he’ll not only need to accustom himself to a new rink and the typical adjustments that come with new angles, but also prove to the organization (and hockey world) that he won’t break mentally when it matters most. This area of his game was placed in great doubt this past season, but Tampa has more than enough time to hold his hand through the next few years of development. - CL

Jack Finley

It was a tough 2020-21 season for the huge pivot, as Finley only got into three games of action, split between the AHL’s Syracuse Crunch and the WHL’s Spokane Chiefs. The pandemic and a shoulder injury combined to sideline Finley, who underwent successful surgery and expects to be ready for training camp. The Lightning signed Finley to an entry-level deal nonetheless and focused on improving his speed during various development camps.

A raw, tantalizing combination of size and skill, Finley is still understanding how to utilize his massive six-and-a-half-foot frame. He possesses excellent puck skills and remarkably mature decision-making for such a young player (Finley was one of the youngest players in his draft year). His positioning and defensive awareness is above average, but Finley is still scratching the surface of his offensive game. He is effective at creating chances off the cycle and has the requisite skills to be a force in front of the net, as he’s good at deflections, reading the play and has soft hands in tight. Finley figures to spend the next season in junior, developing his offensive game and possibly cracking the Canadian WJC team in December. - AS

Maxim Cajkovic

Due to the pandemic, Cajkovic started the season playing at home with Bratislava of the ICEHL, before returning to the QMJHL for his third season. That shows a certain respect and commitment and he fit in well on a deep Val-d’Or team. He is a dynamic threat on the offensive side with a deadly shot. Cajkovic is also a strong skater with good edges and excellent mobility in small area games. He doesn’t need much room to release his good shot. He still has work to do on his 200-foot game and his play without the puck. He is going to have to be more involved in certain phases of the game to get attention and move up the ladder in the Tampa organization.

On the other hand, his combination of size, quickness, and skill is rare. After a very strong playoff performance for the Foreurs, Cajkovic will play in the AHL this season. There may be a bit of an adjustment period for him as he realizes that he cannot overpower pro defenders the way that he has QMJHL teenagers. However, over the long haul, Cajkovic does possess the potential to be a strong middle six, goal scoring winger if the Lightning are patient with him. - BB

Gage Goncalves

It was another successful year for the late-blooming Goncalves, who posted his first professional point in a two-game AHL stint before returning to Everett of the WHL where he improved on his past breakout season by racking up 34 points in just 22 games for the Silvertips. It’s been the road less travelled for Goncalves, who was never drafted in the WHL and passed over in his initial draft year after scoring just one goal in 2018-19. Then he exploded out of nowhere for 33 goals and 71 points the following year, after which the Lightning tabbed him with a second-round selection.

Goncalves is a very smart player with an unrelenting motor and work ethic. His compete level is off the charts, and he is unafraid to go to the dirty areas of the ice. His shot has become a weapon on the powerplay, and he is responsible in his own end. His NHL upside is probably limited to a bottom-six type role, but Goncalves does have underrated offensive skills that could continue to develop, as he’s certainly beaten the odds at every level so far. Although he is technically eligible to return to junior as a 20-year-old this upcoming season, the Lightning may choose to leave him in the AHL instead to compete against men. - AS

Cole Koepke

A sixth-round pick in his third year of draft eligibility, Koepke has already far exceeded expectations and his professional career is only nine games old. He spent three seasons with the University of Minnesota-Duluth, winning a Frozen Four championship as a freshman, and developing as a moderate goal scorer in his latter two seasons with the Bulldogs. While his junior year was not as strong as his sophomore campaign, the main difference was in the helpers, as his goal scoring actually increased, from just under one goal every two games, to just over one per two.

Nothing in particular about Koepke’s game makes the engaged viewer sit up and take notice, but everything he does adds up slowly to an overall positive contribution in a depth role. He can play in all situations and is just as comfortable on his off wing as he is from the left side. He has good size and skates well enough to be functional as a driver of a fourth line, or a supporting wheel in a middle six role. Koepke’s most impressive tool is probably his shot, although it is not clearly head and shoulders above anything else he does, which is more a case of not having any clear weaknesses than it is about being a well-rounded threat. Slated to spend more time in the AHL, a best-case scenario sees Koepke develop along the lines of a Ross Colton type, with whom he also shares other biographical characteristics. - RW

Jack Thompson

With the OHL on hiatus, Thompson, a third-round selection in 2020, took his talents to Sweden last season to play with Surahammaers IF of the HockeyEttan (the Swedish third men’s league). While the league itself is not incredibly high end, Thompson did perform well and has set himself up for a potentially monster OHL season with Sudbury as the league returns for 2021/22.

A potentially elite level offensive defender, Thompson is at his best with the puck on his stick as he looks to be aggressive in pushing the pace with transitional attacks. A strong skater, Thompson also excels when quarterbacking the powerplay because of a strong point shot and an ability to navigate the offensive end well. The Lightning will be looking for him to continue to improve his comfort level and effectiveness in the defensive end, without sacrificing his offensive production. Thompson has good defensive instincts, but he needs to be more consistently dialed in physically to win the battles that he needs to. 2021/22 is a big year for his development, as Tampa should get a better idea of whether Thompson can be a solid two-way presence, or whether he profiles as more of a sheltered offensive defender at the next level. Look for Thompson to be one of the highest scoring defenders in the OHL this coming year. - BO

Eamon Powell

A 2020 draft selection by the Lightning out of the U.S. U18 program, Powell is coming off of a terrific freshman year for Boston College. The strong skating two-way defender was named to Hockey East’s all-rookie team and will look to build upon that as a sophomore this season.

Odeen Tufto

The undersized forward was a free agent signing by the Lightning this offseason, after four great years at Quinnipiac. He was a finalist for the Hobey Baker last season and will look to prove that he can overcome his stature (5’7) to be an impact pro with Syracuse of the AHL this season.

Dylan Duke

Duke may not be the biggest, but he has a knack for finding soft spots in coverage thanks to his quick feet and excellent anticipation in the offensive zone. A fourth rounder in 2021, Duke will head to the University of Michigan for his freshman year this fall. The program has accumulated some serious depth heading into the season. Hopefully Duke can find his way to quality ice time.

Roman Schmidt

The allure of Roman Schmidt is that he combines great size (6’6, 210) with great mobility. However, his decision making at both ends did leave some to be desired in his draft year. Schmidt had originally intended to attend Boston University in the fall, but recently signed with the Kitchener Rangers of the OHL, where he will receive significant responsibility. The hope is that the OHL can help him refine his approach and develop as a potential two-way beast on the backend.

Maxim Groshev

During the 2020/21 season, Groshev practically lived out of a suitcase, playing for seven different teams (including Russia at the World Juniors and two different stops in the KHL). The 2020 third round pick loves to push the pace and attack, but he needs consistent playing time to develop. Hopefully he has a better year in Russia with SKA St. Petersburg this coming season.

Dylan Duke – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #25 Tampa Bay Lightning – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Prospect System Rank – 25th (Last Year - 29th) GM: Julien BriseBois Hired: September 2018 COACH: Jon Cooper Hired: March 2013

1. Sam O'Reilly, C, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

2. Benjamin Rautiainen, C, Tappara (Liiga)

3. Ethan Gauthier, RW, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

4. Dylan Duke, LW, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

5. Ethan Czata, C, Niagara IceDogs (OHL) (Currently with Syracuse Crunch, AHL)

6. Daniil Pylenkov, D, Dymano Moscow (KHL)

7. Jayson Shaugabay, RW, University of Minnesota-Duluth (NCAA)

8. Maxim Groshev, D, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

9. Everett Baldwin, D, Saint John's Sea Dogs (QMJHL) (Currently with Syracuse Crunch, AHL)

10. Joe Connor, LW, Northeastern University (NCAA)

11. Jan Golicic, D, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL)

12. Noah Steen, LW, Örebro HK (SHL) (Currently with Syracuse Crunch, AHL)

13. Marco Mignosa, RW, Soo Greyhounds (OHL)

14. Ethan Samson, D, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

15. Lucas Murcuri, C, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #29

Tampa Bay Lightning Top-15 Prospects

1 - Sam O'Reilly

2 - Ethan Gauthier

3 - Max Crozier

4 - Ethan Czata

5 - Dylan Duke

6 - Connor Kurth

7 - Niko Huuhtanen

8 - Jack Finley

9 - Everett Baldwin

10 - Daniil Pylenkov

11- Jayson Shaugabay

12 - Gabriel Szturc

13 - Hagen Burrows

14 - Roman Schmidt

15 - Dyllan Gill

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: #26 TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

AHL: MOROZ – AHL Rookies to Watch – North Division

Nikita Grebyonkin - Toronto Marlies

Filip Mesar - Laval Rocket

Dylan Duke - Syracuse Crunch

Stephen Halliday - Belleville Senators

Denton Mateychuk - Cleveland Monsters

Vsevolod Komarov - Rochester Americans

Seamus Casey - Utica Comets

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – TAMPA BAY LIGHTING – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #30

Tampa Bay Lightning Top-15 Prospects

1. Conor Geekie

2. Ethan Gauthier

3. Isaac Howard

4. Niko Huuhtanen

5. Gage Goncalves

6. Max Crozier

7. Declan Carlile

8. Dylan Duke

9. Jack Finley

10. Daniil Pylenkov

11. Hagen Burrows

12. Hugo Alnefelt

13. Jayson Shaugabay

14. Lucas Edmonds

15. Gabriel Szturc

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #29 Tampa Bay Lightning – Organizational Overview – Top 15 Prospects

1. Ethan Gauthier, RW, Drummondville Voltigeurs (QMJHL)

2. Isaac Howard, LW, Michigan State University (NCAA)

3. Niko Huuhtanen, RW, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

4. Gage Goncalves, C, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

5. Max Crozier, D, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

6. Declan Carlile, D, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

7. Hugo Alnefelt, G, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

8. Jack Finley, C, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

9. Dylan Duke, C, Syracuse Crunch (AHL)

10. Daniil Pylenkov, D, Dynamo Moskva (KHL)

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #32

1. Isaac Howard

2. Ethan Gauthier

3. Niko Huuhtanen

4. Jack Finley

5. Jack Thompson

6. Hugo Alnefelt

7. Gage Goncalves

Prospect System Rank – 25th (Last Year - 29th)
GM: Julien BriseBois Hired: September 2018
COACH: Jon Cooper Hired: March 2013