Target for the Tampa Bay Lightning offseason: competent Czech forward

The formal start of the Tampa Bay Lightning offseason promises to be an exciting one. The Bolts have been the National Hockey League’s winningest team for the past ten years. The Lightning have already made adjustments this summer, losing to the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Florida Panthers in consecutive first-round exits.In a deal with the Nashville Predators, general manager Julien BriseBois obtained Ryan McDonagh. The team still requires additional forward support, though. Due to cap space constraints, the Lightning have few options, but one player in particular is looking to return to the NHL for the 2024–25 campaign.Here’s why Ondrej Kase seems like a fantastic target for Tampa Bay this summer.

The Tampa Bay Lightning’s off-season targets are: Ondrej Kase

Although Ondrej Kase has only participated in one NHL game in the last two seasons, he could be prepared to make a comeback. Kase’s neurological problems have prevented him from playing in the world’s top league. Several NHL teams are still interested in signing the talented forward for the upcoming campaign. Kase had exceptional stats and was a fantastic middle-six forward prior to his concussion problems. Kase has five points from seven games at the 2024 IIHF World Championship, consisting of two goals and three assists. In addition, Kase finished the season as an assistant captain for HC Litvínov in the Czech Extraliga, recording 23 goals and 31 assists for 54 points in 48 games.

Over the course of his limited 258-game career, the Czech forward has experience with four organizations. Under Sheldon Keefe, Kase scored 14 goals and dished out 13 assists for a total of 27 points in 50 games during his final NHL season with the Maple Leafs in 2021–2022.The winger has 124 points in his career, including 57 goals and 67 assists.Kase, who will only be 28 years old next season, has to be considered by the Lightning as a forward core addition.

Report on Ondrej Kase Scouting
Strengths of Kase

Kase is an extremely gifted forward with deft hands and a keen sense of attack. The winger is also a dangerous player who can shoot and pass. The Czech is well-known for his legendary breakaway forehand to backhand deke. He’s perfected this move and uses his skill and poise to beat goalies of all skill levels. In addition to his strong scoring skills, Kase also plays a significant role on the other side of the puck. There are two things about Kase’s game that are appealing: his middle-six scoring ability and defensive upside.

The Flaws in Kase

The only things concerning Kase’s game are his past injury history and level of competition. Kase did not face any opposition at the NHL level and instead faced bottom-six opposition. For next season, though, the Lightning need affordable depth forwards. The good news is that Kase’s skill and quickness absolutely destroy the less skilled competitors. Despite Kase’s unappealing injury history, the Bolts have the right to extend a contract to him in the same manner as the other 31 NHL teams. After all, with pleasant weather and no state income tax, Tampa Bay is a popular destination for recreation.

Where in the Tampa Bay Lineup Does Kase Work?

Although Kase hasn’t played much against NHL top six players, his quickness and skill set make him a viable backup in the event of an injury. But Kase is the Lightning’s ideal third-line forward. With Nick Paul at center, Kase can get his power forward to play faster. He is an enormous talent and speed addition to a poor Tampa Bay bottom six. The 28-year-old could strengthen the Lightning’s lack in depth scoring, which seemed to be a problem during the playoffs. We are glad to see Ondrej Kase back in good health and prepared to make a comeback to the NHL. Any team would be lucky to have him as a player.

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