A surprise team could join the Jack Eichel derby...
According to a wild rumor leaked by Sportsnet's Nick Alberga, the Tampa Bay Lightning may be interested in the services of Jack Eichel.
How could this be possible? Just like last year, Nikita Kucherov has been placed on the long-term injured list. So automatically, Julien BriseBois' team will have an extra $9.5 million on the payroll.
The journalist believes that the Lightning could use this money to acquire the services of the Sabres' forward. Considering that Kucherov's injury is serious, the Russian could miss a lot of time.
Last year, there were rumors that the Lightning deliberately asked Kucherov not to return to the game before the playoffs to avoid salary cap troubles. Could we see history repeat itself this year?
If so, it would mean that the Lightning could have Brayden Point, Steven Stamkos, Nikita Kucherov and Jack Eichel in the same lineup.
The Lightning have already been struggling with salary cap trouble for the past few seasons, so acquiring Eichel could affect the Florida squad as soon as this campaign ends. The team should get rid of a big contract this summer, as Jack Eichel has a good payday at $10 million until 2026.
Personally, I find this rumor crazy, because it would be a lot of management for the Lightning to have to include Eichel's salary on their payroll. Unless a good Samaritan decided to keep part of Eichel's salary on his payroll. A three-team deal could be possible, but let's be realistic.
Imagine the scenario... The league might as well give the Stanley Cup to the Lightning directly...
Jack Eichel in Tampa Bay, a myth or a reality?
