The Tampa Bay Lightning will be looking to add to their roster before the 2025 NHL trade deadline. In a recent episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported that the Lightning are "really, really looking for a forward" on the trade market.
When looking at the Lightning's current roster, it is easy to understand why they want to bring in another forward. Their top six, in particular, could use another right winger, and they have an interesting option worth considering from the Pittsburgh Penguins: Rickard Rakell.
Rakell, 31, is viewed as one of the NHL's top trade candidates right now. With the Penguins struggling, the 2011 first-round pick has been the subject of trade rumors. This should only continue to be the case as we get closer to March 7.
With the Lightning needing another top-six right winger, Rakell could be an excellent player for them to bring in. He would give them an answer for their 2RW spot and be another impactful option for their power play.
Rakell is in the middle of an excellent season, too. In 56 games, he has 25 goals and 48 points. This includes posting four goals and 12 points over his last 12 appearances.
Another appealing factor about Rakell is that he carries an affordable $5 million cap hit until the end of the 2027-28 season. Thus, he would be more than a rental for the Bolts if acquired.
Overall, if the Penguins end up being open to moving Rakell near the deadline, the Lightning should seriously consider making a push for him.
