Tampa Bay Lightning Add Another Bottom-Six Weapon

An unexpected turn of events led Tyler Motte to ink a one-year contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning. The 28-year-old sought a new annual average of roughly $2 million heading into the 2024 season. However, Motte misread the market and overpriced himself drastically. He will make $800,000 for the upcoming season, only 40% of his initial asking price. Motte is an underrated weapon for the bottom six heading into the season.

The Newest Tampa Bay Lightning Addition: Tyler Motte

Motte is no stranger to new dressing rooms, playing for five teams over his 331-game career. Notably the New York Rangers and Vancouver Canucks. Motte produced a career-high 19 points in 62 games last season. Additionally, he scored an impressive 10 points in 24 games with the Rangers following the trade deadline. Motte notched zero points in seven Stanley Cup Playoff games. Nonetheless, he will be a vital piece for the Lightning next season.

The Role of Motte

Josh Archibald was placed on unconditional waivers for the purpose of contract termination. The 30-year-old will not report to training camp due to family issues. He will be out of hockey for the foreseeable future. Now, Motte will fill the role of Archibald on the fourth-line right wing. 

The reconstructed fourth-line features Logan Brown and Luke Glendening as linemates for Motte. The trio will likely play between ten to 13 minutes a night. Furthermore, Motte will earn extra ice time on the penalty kill because of his golden attribute.

The Golden Attribute of Tyler Motte

Moreover, Tyler Motte is in the upper echelon of forwards in defensive play. He brings a physical intensity to his game. Motte recorded 118 hits last season, tied for 90th amongst all forwards. In addition, Motte historically draws penalties. Andy and Rono at ARHockeyStats ranked Motte in the 90th percentile of penalties drawn in 2023. He will be a catalyst in giving the deadly powerplay unit opportunities. 

Without a doubt, Motte joined the Lightning to help fix the struggling penalty kill. He only allowed 13 shorthanded goals in 127 minutes last season, tied for 24th amongst forwards. While Motte provides a stable defensive impact, he possesses untapped potential on the opposite side of the puck.

Offensive Upside

Consistency is the only factor preventing Motte from reaching 15 goals in a season. In an 82-game season, Motte has the potential to reach this mark, especially alongside Jon Cooper. His 74-game campaign in the 2019 season is his career-high in games played. Furthermore, Motte frequently puts the puck on the net. He notched a career-best 109 shots on goal last season. Check out his puck handling and stick work in these clips. Motte is more talented than the average fourth-line winger.