Prior to the 2023–2024 season, defenseman Matt Dumba signed a one-year contract with the Arizona Coyotes, perhaps with the intention of spending the whole of it in the desert. But things can change quickly when you're a veteran, and at trade deadlines, your talents may typically be a good fit for a team that needs a little boost, which is how the Tampa Bay Lightning acquired him.
The 29-year-old Dumba participated in 58 games with the Arizona team before being acquired by Julien Brisebois. He played 18 games with two assists after the deal. But it looks like his efforts may be in futile because the Lightning will allow him to hit free agency this summer in order to consider alternative offers, according to reports on Tuesday.
It's not shocking that Brisbois and the Lightning let him go; after all, they signed him to try and help Tampa get over the finish line for another Stanley Cup, which never materialized. By letting him go, they now have an opportunity to find a younger, healthier defenseman who shares Dumba's attributes at a lower cost.
Although it's unclear if Dumba will be able to find a new place in time for the 2024–2025 campaign, his presence could be crucial for a youthful core hoping to develop into a contender by providing some veteran depth. Would he serve a purpose for any of the league's 31 other general managers? We'll have to wait and see.
