The Tampa Bay Lightning should focus on improving their defense, especially with key defenseman J.J. Moser sidelined for the long term. This gap on the blueline makes it an ideal time for the Lightning to target potential trade options to strengthen their roster.
One player who could be a great fit for the Lightning is Mike Matheson, a defenseman with the Montreal Canadiens. As Montreal has a wealth of young defensemen and is still in the process of building for the future, Matheson has been a name circulating in trade rumors. The Canadiens might be open to moving him for the right price, making him a potential target for the Lightning.
Matheson could be a perfect addition to the Lightning’s defensive core, particularly on their top pairing with Victor Hedman. Despite being a left-shot defenseman, Matheson has the ability to play on the right side. His offensive skill and puck-moving capability also make him an attractive option for Tampa Bay’s power play unit.
At 30 years old, Matheson has had a strong start to this season with 18 points and two goals in 35 games. This follows a highly productive 2023-24 season where he tallied 11 goals and 62 points in 82 games. His offensive output would be a major asset to the Lightning, particularly in generating offense from the back end.
