The Tampa Bay Lightning, having finished third in the Eastern Conference but eliminated in the playoffs for the third consecutive year, face a challenging offseason under GM Julien BriseBois, particularly due to limited salary cap flexibility. The team must clear Conor Sheary’s unproductive contract to gain some financial room, while trading prospect Isaac Howard, who chose to return to college instead of signing, has become a priority as he is their most valuable trade asset. Addressing these issues is critical for Tampa Bay as they aim to reshape their roster amidst tight financial constraints.
