Tampa Bay Lightning: 2 Prospects Who Could Make The Team Next Season

Having a strong prospect pool is such an important thing, as it helps determine the future success of all NHL franchises. Although it is always nice to be competitive now, things changes rapidly and it truly is a young man's league. Therefore, it feels right to start a 32-team segment covering them. During it, we will be looking at two prospects from every NHL franchise who could become NHL regulars next season.

With this piece, we will be looking at the Tampa Bay Lightning. After winning back-to-back Stanley Cups, the Lightning had to move on from multiple forwards because they were over the cap significantly. Thankfully for them, they have some promising young forwards who may be ready to take that next step and join them next season. Here are two that come to mind.

Boris Katchouk LW: The Tampa Bay Lighting selected Boris Katchouk in the second-round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. It appears that he is ready for the NHL, as he had a very strong season with the AHL affiliate, the Syracuse Crunch. In 29 games, he scored 11 goals and recorded 34 points. It also does not hurt that he is 6'2" and not afraid to throw the body around. Even if he is not inserted in their lineup as a regular, his play of late warrants, at a minimum, a short-term call-up.

Taylor Raddysh RW: Like Katchouk, Taylor Raddysh was also taken in the second-round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. With the Crunch this season, he scored 12 goals and had 29 points in 27 games. The 23-year-old also was an alternate captain, too. He seems like another potential bottom-six or depth forward for the Lightning next season. He also is a bigger winger, so his physicality could be greatly appreciated, too.

Honorable Mention: Alex Barre-Boulet also should get his first prolonged chance with the Lightning next season. Unlike the other two, he has NHL regular season experience. In 15 games with the Lightning this season, he scored three goals.