The Tampa Bay Lightning are expected to be buyers at the 2025 NHL trade deadline. In a recent episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported that the Lightning are "really looking for a forward" and that "they want to strike."
Given where the Lightning are in the standings right now, it is unsurprising that they want to add to their roster. Due to their current four-game winning streak, they are now third in the Atlantic Division and have created more breathing room between them and the clubs chasing them.
Adding a forward should be the Lightning's top priority, as it is clear that they could use more secondary offensive production. When looking at potential trade targets around the league, New York Rangers winger Reilly Smith stands out.
Smith's name has created chatter in the rumor mill due to his pending unrestricted free-agent status and the Rangers not holding a playoff spot. With the Lightning needing help at right wing, he could be a solid veteran for them to bring in.
Smith could give the Lightning an answer for their second-line right wing spot but also could provide offense on their third line. He also would work on their power play if acquired.
In 54 games this season, Smith has 10 goals, 26 points, and a plus-1 rating. With numbers like these, he would give the Lightning some much-needed depth offensive production if acquired. He also carries value because of his playoff experience. He has played in 106 post-season games and notably won the Stanley Cup with the Vegas Golden Knights in 2023, where he scored the Cup-clinching goal.
