NHL Rumors: 2 Free-Agent Targets for the Tampa Bay Lightning

The Tampa Bay Lightning aren't satisfied with their Stanley Cup Final appearance and have already begun their quest to improve their hockey club for next season. Ryan McDonagh has been shipped out to create some more salary cap flexibility and the team would love to re-sign Ondrej Palat with some of the funds. There's also been rumblings of Alex Killorn being shopped around to free up several more millions, this giving the team a chance to add another impact forward.

Two free-agent forwards on the Lightning radar:

Evgeni Malkin

The Pittsburgh Penguins legend appears to be headed for a divorce from the franchise and the Lightning make a ton of sense. Malkin lives in Florida in the offseason and has the Lightning and Florida Panthers circled on his preferred list of destinations. The veteran forward has had some troubles staying healthy of late but is always productive when he does suit up. In 2021-22 Malkin recorded 42 points in 41 games and another six points in seven Stanley Cup Playoff games. The Penguins continue to low ball him with offers so expect to see Malkin sign elsewhere and the Lightning have a legit shot at getting pen to paper.

Claude Giroux

Claude Giroux said no to a trade to the Colorado Avalanche and decided to head down to Florida to chase a ring with the Panthers. We all know how that worked out for him and now he's likely heading to either the Lightning, Toronto Maple Leafs or Ottawa Senators. Tampa Bay would love to add a versatile forward like Giroux who can play all over the lineup and in all situations. He's a veteran with a ton of character and isn't afraid to do whatever it takes to win. It's likely he signs a two-or-three year deal at around $6 million and Lightning management are going to take a long look at this option come July 13 when free agency opens.