The Lightning have a "weird" two-layered core that makes comparisons to other teams problematic.
The aging core is Stamkos/Hedman. Both are approaching the part of the aging curve where decline can begin in earnest. Both are still elite players and form the foundation of the core.
The future core is Point, Kucherov, Sergachev, and Vasilevskiy. These four guys will be carrying this team long after Stamkos retires to Robidas Island some day in the not so distant future.
I really like Palat and would rather keep him over Killorn, Johnson, or Gourde. Hopefully the Lightning can retain Palat.
- GalacticStone
If you want someone to use their cap space to bail you out you have to pay. Tampa would be smart not to sell off their future but you have to give something to get something. Free Agency right now is showing you how valuable players are and the cap situation is a mess for a lot teams. It's a buyers market.
That said, I wouldn't be shocked if the NHL and NHLPA do something to provide cap relief.
