The Tampa Bay Lightning had an active first day of free agency as the 2026-27 season got underway on Wednesday, right up until the clock struck midnight. The Bolts signed two forwards, one huge late-night signing in defenseman John Carlson, and a new backup goalie.

The Eastern Conference First Round matchup between the Tampa Bay Lightning and Montreal Canadiens heads north of the border this weekend, tied at one game each. Following two action-packed overtime results, the Lightning haven't played their best hockey, but haven't played their worst, either. However, there is one force out there keeping the Lightning grounded and headed in the right direction as we enter a pivotal point in the series: Brandon Hagel.

Tye Kartye had two goals and an assist as the New York Rangers beat the Tampa Bay Lightning in the regular season finale, 4-2. Mika Zibanejad added a goal and an assist. Oliver Bjorkstrand and Corey Perry both scored for the Lightning. The loss was their fourth in the last six games as the Lightning struggled to put together consistent play at the conclusion of the season.