Lightning Load Up Pre-Deadline

Lightning GM Duran Size had a sense that Trade Deadline was going to be a very insane situation.

To avoid this, Size got his christmas shopping done early.

In a series of moves, Size was able to solidify his roster by first adding the MRFHL scoring leader and a solid top 4 dman in Valtteri Filppula and Andrej Sekera respectively from the New York Rangers in exchange for a trio of players including Alec Martinez, Justin Abdelkader and young forward "El Nino" Nino Niederreiter.

"Anytime youy're giving up a young player like Nino, it's because you're getting a solid return and that's what we got in acquiring Filppula and Sekera. It was tough to part ways with him but we knew it needed to be done to facilitate this trade that will strengthen our team for the stretch run and beyond as they are signed long term."

Size then added depth to his roster by acquiring Guillaume Latendress from the New Jersey Devils in exchange for a 4th round pick this year and prospect Miikka Salomaki.

"Latendresse is going to bring a strong physical presence in our bottom six that you need in order to make a playoff run or even to try and make the playoffs in our case. 

Size then completed his shopping by anquiring Defensemen Anton Stralman from the Canadiens in exchange for Antti Raanta and defensive prospect Andreas Englung

"Giving up Raanta was tough as he has been solid for us in Syracuse and helping keep us in contention for the Calder Cup Playoffs but we knew getting Stralman was going to be a big boost for us down the stretch and hopefully we will be able to resign him in the off-season."

To facilitate these moves, the Lightning placed Forward Gregory Campbell and Defenseman Nick Schultz on waivers. Campbell was claimed by the Vancouver Canucks while Schultz was sent down to Syracuse to help boosts their defensive core. 

Asked is Size was looking at making any mother moves prior to the deadline, he pretty much seemed content where things were now.

"I think we've made all the necessary moves needed to make a push for the playoffs. We have the team to get the job done!"

Duran Size

GM Tampa Bay Lightning.