NHL Rumors: Lightning Could Target Coyotes Forward

According to Elliotte Friedman, the Tampa Bay Lightning are likely to pursue Arizona Coyotes forward Lawson Crouse.

In his most recent 32 Thoughts piece, Friedman noted that an Eastern Conference executive openly stated that he is concerned Crouse will be traded to the Lightning. It wouldn't be surprising to see this come to fruition, as the Lightning had their third line decimated during the offseason. Both Barclay Goodrow and Blake Coleman left via free agency, and Crouse plays a very gritty game just like them. With that, he too would be described best as a third-line winger.

It's already been established that the Coyotes are shopping Crouse. The Boston Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers are active in the sweepstakes, but it seems probable that the Lightning will be joining them. If Tampa ends up being the lucky team to acquire him, it certainly could make them even better. Although they have limited cap space, his cheap $1.53 million cap hit is not too hard to squeeze in, either.

In 32 games this season, Crouse has nine goals and 17 points. He's on pace to have the best offensive season of his career and isn't showing signs of slowing down. Although he isn't a star, he is a 6'4" winger who provides a bit of scoring along with a lot of physicality. With this, expect to see the number of teams interested in him only grow from here.