Mikhail Sergachev Comments on 'Shocking' Trade to Utah HC

The Tampa Bay Lightning made a slew of interesting offseason moves as they've completely turned their roster upside down, including trading defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah HC. A move that caught many, including Sergachev by complete surprise.

In his introductory press conference, Sergachev opened up about the trade and admitted, he didn't see it coming in the least:

At first, I was in shock. I didn't expect it. Talking to my agent, talking to some players, and talking to (Utah forward Clayton) Keller, everybody said great things about Utah and the new franchise," he said. "It's pretty amazing, honestly. The whole setup, the city. I'm very excited. It's a big opportunity for me to prove myself, being a leader. I’m looking forward to it.

Utah upgraded their defense is a major way by adding Sergachev, who can step in and play top-pair minutes alongside Sean Durzi. The team also added John Marino from the New Jersey Devils, who will immediately improve their top four.

Sergachev spent most of last season recovering from a serious leg injury and is only one season removed from a 64-point campaign, which to this point, has been his best season.

The Lightning received J.J Moser, Conor Geekie and two draft picks in the 'shocking' trade. Sergachev has seven seasons remaining on his deal, seeing him earn $8.5 million per season. The Lightning traded him two days before his no-trade clause kicked in and moved Steven Stamkos after offering him just a $3 million AAV on his contract.

Photo credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports