NHL Rumors: 2 Teams Eyeing Nick Ritchie

We are now three weeks into free agency, and Nick Ritchie is still looking for a new home. Yet, things could change on that front shortly, as two teams are currently eyeing the power forward - the Tampa Bay Lightning and Arizona Coyotes.

The Lightning lost some toughness in their bottom six when they traded Pat Maroon to the Minnesota Wild. As a result, it makes sense that they are now considering Ritchie as a possible replacement for him. The 27-year-old would be a decent addition to their third or fourth line and would also be in the running to receive some power-play minutes because of his strong net-front presence ability.

The Coyotes, on the other hand, have shown this offseason that they are not afraid to bring back former players (Nick Bjugstad and Troy Stetcher). Now, Ritchie could be the next player to follow that pattern. Ritchie had some success with the Coyotes during his short tenure there, and he would once again be a decent middle-six option for them if brought back.

We will need to wait and see if either of these clubs ends up signing Ritchie before the start of the season from here.