Report: Matt Dumba Won't Be Returning to Tampa Bay Lightning

According to David Pagnotta of the Fourth Period, the Tampa Bay Lightning will not be bringing back defenseman Matt Dumba.

The Lightning recently pulled off a rare playoff trade, re-acquiring Ryan McDonagh from the Nashville Predators, which has essentially put the writing on the wall for Dumba. The Lightning only have a projected $5 million in current cap space and of course, have Steven Stamkos to get re-signed. There's going to be a number of moves coming out of Tampa Bay this summer as GM Julien BriseBois tries to navigate a cap world.

As for the 29-year-old Dumba, he appeared in 18 games for the Bolts, collecting just two assists, meanwhile in five playoff games, was held off the scoresheet. He now enters free agency for a second year in a row and isn't likely going to settle on a one-year deal this time around.

Dumba made $3.9 million against the cap last season and is likely in the $3.5-$4 million mark if he's on a long-term contract. His best season came back in 2017-18 as a member of the Minnesota Wild when he posted 50 points in 82 games. While it's not all about the offensive production, Dumba is known as one of the best open-ice hitters in the league and loves to do whatever it takes to help the team win.

With 54 games of Stanley Cup Playoff experience under his belt, expect to see Dumba looking to contenders during the offseason for his next destination as he looks to go deeper in the postseason than ever before.