Lightning Make Bold Move, Acquire Bjorkstrand and Gourde in 3-Team Trade
Big news in the NHL today! The Tampa Bay Lightning have pulled off a major trade, bringing back a familiar face and adding some serious firepower to their roster. In a three-team deal involving the Seattle Kraken and the Detroit Red Wings, the Lightning have acquired Oliver Bjorkstrand and Yanni Gourde, making it clear they’re going all in for another deep playoff run.
Here’s how it all went down. First, the Kraken traded Gourde to the Red Wings in exchange for unsigned defenseman Kyle Aucoin. Detroit retained 50% of Gourde’s salary and then flipped him to Tampa Bay for a conditional fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. Meanwhile, Seattle received forward Michael Eyssimont, a conditional first-round pick in both the 2026 and 2027 drafts, and a second-round pick in 2025 from the Lightning in exchange for Bjorkstrand, Aucoin, and a 2026 fifth-round pick. It’s a significant trade, especially with two top-10 protected first-round picks heading to Seattle.
Lightning GM Julien BriseBois is excited about the additions, emphasizing that both Bjorkstrand and Gourde are highly competitive players with proven postseason success. He believes they’ll play significant minutes, contribute in all situations, and bring a winning mentality to the team.
Bjorkstrand, 29, is in the fourth year of a five-year, $27 million contract and will be an unrestricted free agent after next season. He has been a consistent offensive force, tallying 37 points in 61 games this season. He’s got a strong 200-foot game and can slot into various roles within the Lightning’s lineup.
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Gourde, 33, is no stranger to Tampa Bay fans. A key piece in the Lightning’s back-to-back Stanley Cup wins in 2020 and 2021, he was taken by Seattle in the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft. Now, he’s back where he made his mark. Gourde has 17 points in 36 games this season and remains a relentless, high-energy forward with great speed and competitiveness. BriseBois praised his work ethic, leadership, and ability to elevate his game when it matters most.
For Seattle, this move signals a focus on the future. With two first-round picks and a second-rounder, GM Ron Francis is stocking up for what could be a major retooling effort. Kraken coach Dan Bylsma acknowledged the emotional side of the trade, as both Bjorkstrand and Gourde were key parts of Seattle’s early history. However, he sees the draft capital as a big step in the right direction for the organization.
At the moment, the Lightning sit third in the Atlantic Division, just three points behind the first-place Panthers and Maple Leafs. With these moves, they’re making it clear: they’re not just aiming for the playoffs—they’re chasing another championship.
What do you think of the trade? Did the Lightning make the right move? Let’s hear your thoughts!
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