Tampa Bay Lightning Season Forecast: Forward Edition

Apr 14, 2013; Buffalo, NY, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning center

(17) during the game against the Buffalo Sabres at the First Niagara Center. Sabres beat the Lightning 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

#17 Alex Killorn
2013 (NHL): 38-7-12-19

One of the few bright spots for the Tampa Bay Lightning last season was Alex Killorn. Killorn was called up to the big league just after the beginning of the season and didn’t look back. He played all over the lineup without looking out of place, and by year’s end there was no doubt he’d be back in October.

The Lightning are hoping Killorn is a forerunner of what’s coming down the pipe. His transition to the NHL was near-seamless after a very strong half-year in the AHL.

Killorn is Tampa Bay’s most versatile forward. Simply put, he can play the game however you want it. He can skate, he can shoot, he can pass, he plays both sides of the puck, and he doesn’t shy away from the rough stuff. You know the saying: good at everything, great at nothing. And he doesn’t take shifts off.

Frankly, we could use a few more Killorns, or at least a few more players with balanced games. These are the players that provide stability, something the Lightning have been sorely lacking for years. But Killorn, remember, might be the forerunner of the next generation. We hope.

What he provides: You name it.

Where he’ll play: 2nd Line to start, some 3rd Line duty, occasional 1st Line duty.

Best case scenario: Takes a step forward in all areas, becomes a near top-end two-way player.

Worst case scenario: Sophomore slump, is demoted to AHL and replaced by Brett Connolly.

Forecast: 45-50 points, inspiring work ethic, sticks with team easily but plays all over the lineup.