Lightning Have PTO Target in Ex-Bruins Forward

The Tampa Bay Lightning would be wise to look for more forward depth before the start of the season. While they have had a busy offseason, adding another top-nine option to their group would not hurt.

Related: Lightning Make Sneaky Good Signing With Forward

With it so late into the offseason, the free-agent market does not have too many big-name players left. While this is the case, the Lightning could consider sending out at least one professional tryout (PTO) contract for their upcoming training camp.

One specific player who could be a perfect PTO target is veteran winger James van Riemsdyk.

Van Riemsdyk, 35, showed this past season with the Boston Bruins that he is still a serviceable top-nine forward. In 71 games for the Original Six club, he recorded 11 goals and 38 points. He also had five points in 11 playoff games for Boston. With numbers like these, he would have the potential to give the Lightning some decent secondary production.

Related: Promising Lightning Prospect Could Be Hidden Gem

While van Riemsdyk had a solid year in 2023-24, it may be best for the Lightning to go down the PTO route before potentially signing him to a short-term deal. It would allow them to see if he could fit their lineup first rather than immediately inking him a deal.

Nevertheless, van Riemsdyk could be a very solid player for the Lightning to take a look at during training camp. If signed to a cheap one-year pact, he could be a solid addition to their third line and power play.

Recent Lightning News

Lightning Surging Forward Will Hit Higher Level

Lightning Forward Is Clear Bounce-Back Candidate

Lightning Has Solid Target in Ex-Canadiens Forward

New Lightning Star Set to Smash Career Highs

Lightning Should Have Reunited With Pat Maroon

Lightning Top Prospect Can't Be Ignored

Jake Guentzel Has High Hopes for Lightning