The Tampa Bay Lightning open the regular season tonight on a mission: to overcome past mistakes and build on their experiences. Considered one of the favorites to win a competitive Atlantic Division, the Bolts know time is precious. As the team opens with a visit to New York to face the Rangers, hope and excitement certainly wear Tampa Bay blue and white.

The Tampa Bay Lightning announced the club’s season-opening roster for the 2026-27 NHL season today. Tampa Bay’s roster includes 15 forwards, eight defensemen, and two goaltenders. Bolts Vice President and General Manager Julien BriseBois also announced that forward Benjamin Rautiainen has been loaned to Tappara of the Finnish Liiga.

Cole Reinhardt scored the game-winning goal and added an assist as the Florida Panthers defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning Thursday night, 5-3. Bokondji Imama and Kai Schwindt also added a goal and an assist each in the first of two preseason games between the teams this week. Despite the loss, several positives emerged for Lightning players still looking to find a place on the roster for next week's regular season.