It’s no secret that the Tampa Bay Lightning would like to add defensive depth at the trade deadline. The loss of Mikhail Sergachev has forced them to start rookie Emil Lilleberg and injuries have stretched their depth at times during the season. Chris Tanev may not have been on the top of their list, but he was surely on it. A true defensive defenseman, the 34-year-old right-shot would have solidified their depth:
Unfortunately, Tanev is no longer on the trading block as the Calgary Flames continued their fire sale by trading him to the Dallas Stars for a decent, but not overwhelming haul. In exchange for his services, the Stars sent a 2024 second-round pick, a conditional 2026 third-round pick, and prospect Artem Grushnikov to the Flames. They also sent a 2026 fourth-round pick to the New Jersey Devils as they helped retain a portion of Tanev’s salary. The third-round pick’s condition relies on the Stars making the 2024 Stanley Cup Final. If they don’t, they keep the pick.
Grushnikov isn’t considered a can’t-miss prospect. The defenseman was a second-round pick by the Stars in 2021 and was playing his first professional season with the Texas Stars where he had 5 points (1 goal, 4 assists) in 44 games. He’ll likely play in the NHL, but most likely ends up a third-pairing player.
Not having to include a first-round pick or a top offensive prospect is pretty negotiating on GM Jim Nill’s part. As for the Flames, they pick up some more draft picks, they now have four picks in the first two rounds of this year’s draft and nine total picks in the draft. Grushnikov could also turn into a younger version of Tanev. Remember when Erik Cernak was an unknown commodity when the Lightning acquired him in the Ben Bishop trade? Calgary can also now focus on fielding offers for Noah Hanifin.
Will the Lightning be involved in those conversations?
Other Hockey News
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Canucks progressing on Pettersson extension [Daily Faceoff]
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PWHL announces playoff and draft procedures [PWHL]
The PWHL just took all of hockey internet’s ideas and brought them into reality. First, the top seed of their four playoff teams will be able to select their opponent (either the third or fourth seed). As for the draft, the “Gold” plan will be in effect. In short the team that accrues the most points after being eliminated from playoff contention will be awarded the top pick.
Charged 2018 World Junior players elect trial by jury [TSN]
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I’m pretty sure Torts likes dogs more than most of his players. Wholesome doggo content incoming:
