Tampa Bay Lightning Free Agents: Should they stay or should they go?

Name: Chris Kunitz

Age: 38

Position: LW

Free Agent Status: Unrestricted

The Lightning signed forward Chris Kunitz to a 1 year $3 million deal last offseason in an attempt to bring some experience to a relatively young Lightning roster.   He appeared in all 82 games for the Bolts and recorded 13 goals and 16 assists for a total of 29 points.  For a 38-year-old, that’s pretty impressive

In the playoffs, however, Kunitz recorded a lone assist in the 17 games the Lightning played.  Part of the reason he was brought on this season was for his extensive playoff experience.

Based on his underwhelming production and the unenthused play of the Lightning that caused their elimination, it’s safe to say Kunitz’s experience and leadership didn’t get them quite as far as they would have hoped.

There have been rumors that per Kunitz’s agent, he wants to stay in Tampa for one more season and make one more run at the Cup.  While the sentiment has to be appreciated, signing Kunitz to a new contract just doesn’t make sense for the Lightning.

Verdict: Go.  Kunitz produced a valiant effort this season, but what was seen is likely the roof of his production at this point in his career.  He’s a workhorse, but at his age (and by no fault of his own) he’s on the decline.

Like Paquette, Kunitz’s role is easily replaceable.  Every team in the league wants to get younger and faster, and that’s the right move for the Lightning in this situation.