MIDSEASON GRADES: What We Learned About the Lightning in 2025 | Biggest Key to Success in 2026

Tampa Bay Lightning surge into playoff position despite relentless injuries—has John Cooper delivered one of his best coaching performances yet? Brandon Hagel leads the charge with a breakout season, while Jake Guentzel’s consistency anchors the offense. Depth scoring returns as unsung heroes like Dominic James and Darren Raddysh step into pivotal roles, reigniting the team’s trademark versatility seen in their Stanley Cup runs.

Nick Morgan and Greg Stephen debate the Lightning’s biggest challenges, from injury woes to inconsistent power play execution, and ask if the team’s physicality is enough for another Cup push. Superlative picks spotlight Hagel’s two-way impact and Raddysh’s unexpected rise, while questions loom about Oliver Bjorkstrand’s second-half contributions. With Andrei Vasilevskiy poised as an X factor for 2026, can Tampa Bay cement contender status? Don’t miss this candid breakdown of the Lightning’s midseason trajectory and keys to success.

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