In the heat of draft season, the Tampa Bay Lightning and Utah Hockey Club worked out a stunning trade. The Lightning have traded defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to Utah in exchange for forward Conor Geekie, defenseman JJ Moser, a 2025 second-round pick (originally the Toronto Maple Leafs’) and a 2024 seventh-round (199th) pick.
Utah will take on all of Sergachev’s cap hit – $8.5 million until the 2030-31 season. The new NHL franchise made a move to bolster their defense and get another name ahead of their inaugural season to get the new fan base excited. Meanwhile, the former back-to-back Stanley Cup champions clear some much-needed cap space and restock some draft choices.
Sergachev spent a good chunk of 2023-24 on the long-term injury reserve (LTIR). In 34 regular-season games, he had two goals and 17 assists for 19 points.
Geekie was drafted 11th overall by the Arizona Coyotes. He has signed his entry-level contract and will be heading to professional hockey in 2024-25. In 205 NHL games, Moser has 16 goals and 56 assists for 72 points. He has played at least 80 games in the last two seasons.
Free Newsletter
Get NHL News coverage delivered to your inbox
In-depth analysis, breaking news, and insider takes - free.
Subscribe Free →
