It is safe to say that not a lot went right for the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2016-17. Sure it wasn't a complete tire fire, but when your team is expected to compete for a Stanley Cup and falls short of the playoffs altogether, it's hard to be anything but disappointed.
Yes, last season did not go according to plan for the Bolts. However, there were still some things that left the organization and fan base pleased and excited for what the future brings. Of those "bright spots", rookie forward Brayden Point had to be the brightest.
After being selected by the Lightning in the third round (79th overall) of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Point continued to establish himself as a goal scorer and overall point producer in the Western Hockey League. He played the next to seasons for the Moose Jaw Warriors recording 38 goals and 49 assists in 2014-15 and 35 goals and 53 assists in 2015-16. Although he scored 124 goals and accrued 324 points during his time with Moose Jaw, it was not expected that he would come in and make an immediate impact for the Lightning in his rookie season.
Well, expectations are meant to be exceeded and Point accomplished just that in 2016-17. With all of the injuries Tampa Bay was suffering, he took to the ice and provided the team with some much-need fire and offensive production. In 68 games with the Bolts, Point made a statement in his rookie year, recording 18 goals and 22 assists.
Going into his second year in the NHL, Point hopes to avoid any sort of "sophomore slump" and continue to improve on his skills and production. With a healthy roster around him, hopefully, he should be given plenty of opportunities to shine and show that not all of Tampa Bay's talent lies within their big names. As the 2017-18 season draws closer, every should make sure that Brayden Point is on their radar as another solid year should be expected for the 21-year-old.
Side Note
As I mentioned in the last post, I am creating a fantasy hockey league for my readers and followers to participate in. There is no money involved and is strictly for some fun and the opportunity to boast and brag a little. If you are interested, please contact me by email at
[email protected] and I can send you the league information.
Calgary Flames Blogger • 
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