Yesterday, we talked about Declan Carlile making the U.S. squad that is heading to the IIHF Men’s Ice Hockey World Championship, and today it’s J.J. Moser’s turn. The Lightning’s best defenseman this year will keep his season going as he will join Team Switzerland for the international tournament that will be played in Zurich and Fribourg. Team Canada also announced their roster, but there will be no Lightning players joining them (as of right now). So, for now, it’s just Moser and Carlile heading to Switzerland for a couple of weeks.
Unlike Carlile, who has no international experience, Moser has represented his country multiple times including the most recent Olympics. Throughout his career with the Lightning and Coyotes, Moser has played in five previous World Champions. The 25-year-old has logged 35 games and recorded 3 goals while adding 11 assists.
While Switzerland hasn’t announced their official preliminary roster yet, it looks like they have commitments from other NHL players such as Roman Josi, Nino Niederreiter, and Nico Hischier as they chase a gold medal. Moser was part of the 2025 squad that won silver as they lost to the US in overtime.
Hockey News
Kucherov named Hart Finalist [Raw Charge]
We took the opportunity to ponder Kucherov’s future in Tampa.
Which 2025-26 Round 1 loser inspires the most – and least – hope for next season [Daily FaceOff]
The Lightning get a vote of confidence (thanks Mike Gould!).
What’s the cause for Brayden Point’s production dip? [Tampa Bay Times]
From a couple of days ago, but it’s still worth the read. A dip in shooting percentage from high-danger spots is the biggest culprit.
Kitchener Rangers build 2-0 lead in series against Barrie Colts [CHL]
The Rangers took Game Two of the OHL Final by a score of 4-3. Lightning prospect Sam O’Reilly had a short-handed assist for his 24th point of the playoffs. Not a bad playoff run for the first player in league history to appear in four straight OHL Finals.
NHL gambles away its credibility with draft lottery [Montreal Gazette]
Alternative headline – Montreal writer is grumpy that the Leafs won the lottery and spins a conspiracy theory while also including the “if you believe the lottery was on the up-and-up (and I will concede that it probably was)” disclaimer.
How playoff experience, battle scars are fueling the Hurricanes run [The News & Observer]
The Carolina Hurricanes are rolling through the playoffs and have a chance to sweep their second straight opponent, something only the 1985 Oilers have done to start a postseason. Still, despite the good times, there are plenty of players on the roster that have been molded by the losses over the last few seasons.
Montreal 5, Sabres 1 [Series tied at one]
It appears Montreal has gotten themselves up to speed against the Sabres. This one is probably going seven games.
Golden Knights 6, Ducks 2 [Vegas leads 2-1]
Mitch Marner recording hat tricks while the Leafs go golfing is just a little extra twist of the knife, ain’t it? Vegas regained home ice advantage as they scored early and often to take the lead over the upstart Ducks. Is this the beginning of the end, or will Anaheim find a way to keep exceeding expectations.
That’s a wrap from the weekend folks. Unless something crazy happens, we’ll be back Monday morning. Go enjoy the weekend!
