The Tampa Bay Lightning face a busy and exciting week, packed with significant events both on and off the ice. From crucial roster adjustments to a highly anticipated outdoor game, here's a comprehensive look at what lies ahead for the Bolts.
Stadium Series Showdown:
The highlight of the week is undoubtedly the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series game. On February 1st, the Lightning will host the Boston Bruins at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. This outdoor regular season game promises a unique atmosphere and a memorable experience for players and fans alike. A pregame tailgate party is scheduled from 1:00 PM to 6:30 PM in parking lots 5 & 7, featuring interactive hockey games, special appearances, live music, and a chance to see the Stanley Cup.
This will mark the second Stadium Series game for the Lightning, their first being in 2022 against the Nashville Predators. For the Bruins, this will be their first ever Stadium Series appearance.
Roster Moves Amidst Injuries:
The Lightning have been grappling with a number of injuries, forcing General Manager Julien BriseBois to make several roster moves to ensure adequate depth. Recently, defenseman Max Groshev was recalled from the Syracuse Crunch to replace Charle-Edouard D'Astous, who was placed on injured reserve following a game in Columbus.
In a separate transaction, forward Curtis Douglas has been recalled from his conditioning stint with the Syracuse Crunch. Douglas has played 27 games with Tampa Bay this season, recording two assists and 75 penalty minutes.
Earlier in the season, the team recalled defensemen Declan Carlile and Steven Santini from Syracuse, while activating forward Dominic James from injured reserve and placing defenseman Maxwell Crozier on it. Furthermore, forward Scott Sabourin was recalled from the Syracuse Crunch, while Mitchell Chaffee was assigned to Syracuse after clearing waivers.
Ryan McDonagh is nearing a return, having skated with the team in a non-contact jersey, while Victor Hedman and Brayden Point are also progressing in their recovery. Emil Lilleberg is eyeing a return around February 25th. Anthony Cirelli's absence in a recent game was precautionary. Erik Cernak's status is unknown after he took a boarding hit in Saturday's game against Columbus.
Upcoming Games and Schedule:
Besides the Stadium Series game, the Lightning have two other games this week. They face the Utah Mammoth on January 26th and the Winnipeg Jets on January 29th, both at home.
Nikita Kucherov's Dominance:
Nikita Kucherov continues to be a standout performer for the Lightning, leading the team with 8 points this past week. Since January 1st, Kucherov has tallied more points than any other NHL player, boasting 27 points in 11 games. He is also approaching a franchise record, with 305 multi-point games, just behind Steven Stamkos' 307.
With a mix of high-profile events and ongoing roster adjustments, this week promises to be a defining stretch for the Tampa Bay Lightning as they push towards their playoff goals.
