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The Lightning bid a reluctant farewell to defenseman Ryan McDonagh, trading him to Nashville in a move forced by the Bolts’ salary cap restraints. Tampa Bay acquired Philippe Myers and Grant Mismash after McDonagh waived his no-trade clause.
Before the trade, the Lightning were an estimated $5 million over next year’s salary cap. Even after the trade, the website capfriendly.com reported the Bolts are still $933,333 over the cap.
McDonagh was a key member of the Bolts’ defense during their three consecutive trips to the Stanley Cup finals. Filling the hole he leaves behind will be a major challenge.
– Joe Henderson, Extensive Enterprises Media