The Tampa Bay Lightning are in an interesting position heading into the 2024 NHL Offseason. They have just over $5 million of cap space to work and still need to re-sign Steven Stamkos. Because of this, they are expected to move out at least one of their players.
With the Lightning not having much money to work with this offseason, they will not be in a position to make any massive additions to their roster through free agency. However, they can potentially add bargain players to their group.
Because of this, one free agent who they should keep an eye on this offseason is Tanner Pearson. It has already been reported that Pearson will not be back with the Montreal Canadiens next season and will hit the market.
Pearson, 31, had a bit of a down year with the Canadiens, posting five goals and 13 points in 54 games. While it was a down year for him, he is a clear bounce-back candidate heading into 2024-25 when looking at his resume.
When playing at his best, Pearson is a solid top-nine forward who provides secondary scoring. For example, during his last primarily-healthy season in 2021-22 with the Vancouver Canucks, he had 14 goals and 34 points in 68 games.
If the Lightning added Pearson on a cheap one-year deal, he would have the potential to be a nice pickup for their third line and second power-play unit. With the Lightning needing more offense, the one-time Stanley Cup winner might be worth taking a gamble on.
