Tampa Bay Lightning
The Tampa Bay Lightning sit in the bottom tier in most NHL prospect rankings. And when your first round pick from 2022 tops most player rankings in the pool, you are in trouble. Winger Isaac Howard sits at Number One and he possesses between average to above average characteristics like skating, hockey IQ, and puck-handling, though he is a standout with stick-handling.
Jack Finley is a towering defensive forward who likely won’t see time on the top lines. He’s not a good skater, and he does not handle the puck well. The former second round pick projects best as a fourth-liner if he reaches the NHL.
The average to below-average skill sets are a continuing trend for the top players listed in the prospect pool. Though defenseman Jack Thompson could surprise if he improves his skating and puck control. Especially on the power play.
Left winger Gage Goncalves is another potential intriguing find. He is a further asset for the power play and his hockey IQ allows him to create offense and even scoring opportunities.
Overall, while few are hot on the Lightning’s top prospects, there is potential here as you work your way down the list. Especially regarding Thompson and Goncalves. That said, the Lightning may have something if they need to look to their prospect pool.
Article Source: Tampa Bay Lightning rank No. 31 in NHL Pipeline Rankings for 2022 by Corey Ponman