Predicting If Tampa Bay Lightning's Top Stars Will Improve or Decline in 2014

Eric Steitz — Wed, 15 May 2013 22:01:25 -0400

If there is one thing the Tampa Bay Lightning have a surplus of, it’s star players. Those stars’ production will be crucial to the team’s success in 2014. Will players like Steven Stamkos, Martin St. Louis and Matt Carle improve or decline next season?

The Bolts’ disappointing season was only compacted by the individual performances of players like Stamkos and reigning Art Ross Trophy winner St. Louis. Tampa Bay’s potent offense will need to duplicate similar success in 2014.

Based on career trends, overall production and general player development, here is a prediction for each Lightning star to improve or decline in 2014.

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Tampa Bay Lightning Prospects Most Likely to Be Standouts in 2014

Eric Steitz — Sun, 12 May 2013 21:51:23 -0400

One thing every team needs is a strong group of prospects. According to HockeysFuture.com, the Tampa Bay Lightning have the No. 9-ranked prospect system led by a talented group of forwards. There are a few prospects who could make a splash in 2014 and be a standout rookie next season.

What exactly is a rookie? A rookie (via NHL.com) is a player who “must not have played in more than 25 NHL games in any preceding seasons, nor in six or more NHL games in each of any two preceding seasons. Any player at least 26 years of age (by September 15th of that season) is not considered a rookie.”

With that definition in mind, here are the Lightning prospects who could be rookie standouts in 2014.

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Bleacher Report - Tampa Bay Lightning

Predicting If Tampa Bay Lightning's Top Stars Will Improve or Decline in 2014

Tampa Bay Lightning Prospects Most Likely to Be Standouts in 2014