4 Lightning players making strong early season impressions

Writing for Bolts by the Bay, Harrison Smajovits highlights four Tampa Bay Lightning players who have stood out early in the 2026-27 NHL regular season. Free-agent signing Ilya Mikheyev has provided two-way production with three points and physical play, while young forward Conor Geekie scored a game-winning goal against the Washington Capitals.

Smajovits also highlights Brayden Point, noting he is showing positive signs of bouncing back offensively and defensively following an injury-hampered campaign last year. Meanwhile, veteran defenseman Victor Hedman has excelled defensively in a reduced role, recording eight blocked shots across the opening stretch.