Tampa Bay Lightning Pursue Key Trade with Seattle Kraken Ahead of Deadline

TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Lightning are reportedly in discussions with the Seattle Kraken regarding a potential trade that could bring forwards Oliver Bjorkstrand and Yanni Gourde to Tampa Bay. As the NHL trade deadline approaches on March 7, the Lightning are seeking to bolster their bottom-six forward group with this acquisition.

Sources indicate that the Lightning would send a hefty package to the Kraken, including Tampa Bay’s first-round picks in 2026 and 2027, as well as a second-round pick from Toronto in 2025. In return, they would also receive Seattle’s fifth-round pick in 2026, adding complexity to the impending deal.

The Lightning’s recent roster adjustments have opened up approximately $900,000 in salary cap space. This leaves them with around $6.9 million in available funds, just enough to acquire both Bjorkstrand and Gourde, assuming the Kraken retain close to 50% of each player’s salary. With Bjorkstrand’s cap hit of $5.4 million and Gourde’s at $5.16 million, the Lightning’s plan seems ambitious but achievable with the right financial maneuvers.

“Tampa is in desperate need of bottom-six depth,” noted an anonymous analyst. “The price might be steep, but these two players are necessary.” Kraken General Manager Ron Francis could look to extract significant value from the Lightning, especially with multiple teams interested in Gourde, including the Ottawa Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs.

Gourde, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, has faced a challenging season with just 14 points in 36 games, primarily due to injuries. However, his return to the Kraken lineup on Tuesday rekindled interest from teams eager to add playoff experience before the trade deadline.

“Gourde will be a better finisher on lines that have shown potential this season,” said a former NHL executive. “He offers grit and tenacity that the Lightning could certainly use moving forward.”

As reported by leading hockey insider Elliotte Friedman, the Lightning are working on finalizing the details before the trade deadline, which adds a layer of urgency. “Lightning have their eyes firmly set on acquiring Bjorkstrand and Gourde,” Friedman stated. “They must act quickly as the waiver deadline also looms.”

The situation becomes more intricate with teams like the Senators and Maple Leafs expressing interest. The Senators have reportedly held talks about acquiring Gourde, who fits their need for veterans ahead of the playoff run. Meanwhile, the Leafs are weighing their options as they seek a center ahead of the trade deadline.

Gourde’s resilience and postseason experience greatly enhance his value in trade discussions. With the Lightning’s depth issue at the forefront, acquiring him alongside Bjorkstrand could become a pivotal move that significantly impacts Tampa Bay’s playoff hopes.

As this story develops, speculation around the Lightning’s trade strategy continues to evolve, highlighting a critical period for the franchise. Fans and analysts alike await clarity as negotiations unfold in the coming days, with hopes of Tampa Bay making a significant upgrade in their roster.