The Tampa Bay Lightning are already off to a strong start of the season with a 5-3-0 record, but on Sunday they made a unexpected decision by waiver forward Gabriel Fortier, a former second-round draft pick.
Fortier, who has spent most of his time with the Tampa Bay's AHL team, the Syracuse Crunch, has just recovered from an offseason surgery, and NHL insider Elliotte Friedan mentioned that with him being placed on waivers indicates he's close to returning to the ice.
Over the last two seasons, Fortier has been a solid contributor with the Syracuse Crunch, putting up 29 goals and 26 points. However, the 24-year old, only stands at 5-foot-11, and relies on his skills more than his size and has truly made a name for himself in the AHL since the start of his pro career in 2018.
Fortier has shown potential in his 11 NHL appearances, where he managed to score one goal. Although he hasn't secured a regular NHL roster spot, he had added depth to the Lightning's over the last few years, making him the perfect type of player for the New York Rangers to acquire.
If Fortier isn't claimed by tomorrow, he will be reassigned to the Lightning's AHL affiliate team, The Syracuse Crunch.
Do you think the Rangers try to acquire Gabriel Fortier off the waiver wire? Let us know in poll down below and stay turned to NY Rangers insider for the latest news and updates on the New York Rangers.
POLL | ||
OCTOBRE 27 | 309 ANSWERS Opportunity for the Rangers: Former second-round pick lands on waivers by Tampa Bay Do you think the Rangers try to acquire Gabriel Fortier off the waiver wire? | ||
Yes | 90 | 29.1 % |
No | 219 | 70.9 % |
List of polls |