Lightning's Darren Raddysh noncommittal as free agency looms

Lightning defenseman Darren Raddysh, coming off a career season, will command strong interest in free agency.

How that process plays out, and whether it'll result in a return to Tampa Bay, remains to be seen.

At the team's end of season media availability Tuesday, Raddysh expressed his appreciation for the franchise but did not seem to give Tampa Bay the inside track to re-signing him.

"I'm very thankful for everything that Tampa's given me," he said. "I've been here for the last four years, and I can't say anything bad about this organization. It's given me everything that I've always wanted to do in my life.

"The business side, I think, will take some time."

In the meantime, Raddysh said he'll focus on spending time with his son, Beau, who was born in October.

The Lightning should have the cap space to extend Raddysh, who posted career highs in goals (22), assists (48) and points (70) this year. His goals were the most by a defenseman in franchise history, and he joined Victor Hedman as the only Lightning blueliners to post a 70-point season.

"Seeing the way that he elevated his scheme, whether it's defensively, offensively," said fellow defenseman J.J. Moser, "its just amazing to watch."

Lightning general manager Julien BriseBois agreed.

"The type of season he just had was not on the radar for us," he said.

BriseBois said he's been in touch with Raddysh's representation throughout the second half of the year and, like Raddysh, said the process will take time.

"Let us digest this loss," he said. "We'll get back to you with the type of opportunities we have for you, or not, moving forward."

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This story was originally published May 5, 2026 at 12:32 PM.