Despite being four years removed from their last Stanley Cup championship title, the Tampa Bay Lightning have made significant moves with the hope of extending their competitive window. On March 5, 2025, the Lightning acquired center Yanni Gourde and right winger Oliver Bjorkstrand through a strategic three-team trade involving the Seattle Kraken and the Detroit Red Wings. With the Lightning sitting third in the Atlantic Division, just three points behind the leaders, the timing couldn't be more opportune.
General Manager Julien BriseBois expressed his determination to keep the Lightning competitive, stating, "I’d rather have a lineup full of good players than a bank of a ton of draft picks. […] We want to win a lot of hockey games this season, next season, every season." This trade not only adds depth to the roster but also reflects Tampa Bay's focus on immediate success rather than future draft capital.
Yanni Gourde knows the Lightning's culture well, having played six seasons with the team and being part of the back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2020 and 2021. His presence brings both familiarity and experience, and upon returning, he wasted no time getting back to business. "It's good to be back. I feel great, there's lots of excitement. It's good to be back in a Bolts jersey and see the guys. I can't wait to play!" Gourde remarked, reflecting the positive energy surrounding his return.
Oliver Bjorkstrand, meanwhile, adds to the offensive arsenal with his individual capability. Currently, he has 16 goals and 21 assists to his name this season, showcasing his skillset with the Kraken. With consistent performances throughout his career, particularly evident during the last NHL season, he is seen as a player who can significantly impact Tampa Bay's playoff run.
The details of the trade saw Tampa Bay parting with forward Michael Eyssimont along with two first-round draft picks (both top-10 protected) and Toronto’s second-round pick for 2025, which they previously acquired. Seattle retained 50% of Gourde's salary, making the move financially viable for the Lightning.
This three-team transaction demonstrates the Lightning's intent to remain among the elite teams competing for the Cup. The organizational mantra is straightforward; they aim for championships now and for the foreseeable future. Many believe this offensive enhancement could be the key to revitalizing their attack leading up to the playoffs.
Tampa Bay enters this week with a record of 36-21-4, just three points shy of the Atlantic Division lead, emphasizing their competitive spirit as they prepare for the playoff push. On March 6, during their practice, Gourde donned his familiar No. 37 jersey, seamlessly re-integrated among teammates he considers family. Tampa Bay coach Jon Cooper commented on Gourde's return, noting, "He’s a Bolt; he walked in here like he never left."
Another plus for Tampa Bay is the long-term investment they’re making with Bjorkstrand, who remains under contract through the 2025-2026 season. This provides the team not only with immediate help but also stability for the future.
With both players expected to play significant minutes and already known for their postseason success, the combination of Gourde’s speed and Bjorkstrand’s offensive skills could prove formidable. BriseBois underscored the expectation, saying, "We’re adding two players who are highly competitive and can be used in all sorts of situations."
The Lightning’s recent acquisitions show they are focused and ready to compete with the best teams. Should they manage to merge the skills of Gourde and Bjorkstrand effectively, they could very well find themselves back vying for another Stanley Cup, rejuvenated by familiar faces and enhanced roster depth.
With the emotions surrounding these players and their shared history with the organization, there’s palpable excitement within the locker room and among the fanbase. Tampa Bay is making waves as they not only look to cement their place this postseason but also strive to keep the championship window open well beyond the current season. The addition of Gourde and Bjorkstrand positions the Lightning as a team no one wants to face, especially as the playoffs approach. Their growth and chemistry will be interesting to follow over the coming weeks.
All eyes now turn to the Lightning's performance as they prepare to face the Buffalo Sabres on March 7. With Gourde back on the ice, the hope is not just for immediate success, but for revitalizing the South Florida franchise's appeal as they chase their records of past glory.