The Tampa Bay Lightning continue their primary goal of securing a playoff spot this season in the NHL, and to achieve that, they have added two key reinforcements to strengthen their roster for the final stretch of the regular season. In a significant trade involving the Detroit Red Wings and the Seattle Kraken, Jon Cooper‘s team adds two new faces, one of whom is a two-time Stanley Cup champion.
According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the Lightning have acquired the services of Oliver Bjorkstrand and Yanni Gourde. Additionally, they secured a fifth-round pick in the 2026 draft and prospect Kyle Aucoin.
For their part, the Detroit Red Wings received a fourth-round pick in the 2025 draft, which will come from the better-ranked team between Tampa Bay and Edmonton. Todd McLellan’s team has the opportunity to add talent for the future.
Finally, the Kraken add Mikey Eyssimont to their roster, along with a 1st-round pick in 2026 and 2027 (both top-10 protected), as well as a 2nd-round pick 25. If either first-round pick falls within the top 10, it will slide back one year, meaning both picks could potentially move to 2028 and 2029. Additionally, Seattle will receive an extra third-round pick from Tampa Bay each time this scenario occurs.
The Playoffs, the primary goal for the Lightning
The decisive 6-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets has placed Tampa Bay in third place in the Atlantic Division. Although there is still some time left in the regular season, Jon Cooper’s team continues to move forward with a steady pace, keeping their sole focus on reaching the playoffs.
With the addition of Oliver Bjorkstrand and Yanni Gourde, the team is expected to strengthen even further, given the leadership and experience both players bring. The dream of raising the Stanley Cup once again grows stronger with each passing day.
What’s next for the Lightning?
- vs Buffalos Sabers, March 6th
- vs Boston Bruins, March 8th
- vs Carolina Hurricanes, March 11th
- vs Philadelphia Flyers, March 13th
- vs Boston Bruins, March 15th