What's Happening?
The Tampa Bay Lightning have announced the recall of defenseman Declan Carlile from the Syracuse Crunch, their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate. Carlile, a 25-year-old native of Hartland, Michigan, has been a standout player for the Crunch this season, leading all defensemen on the team with nine assists, 11 points, and 46 shots, while also contributing one power-play goal. He ranks second in penalty minutes with 27. Carlile has played in 211 career AHL games, all with Syracuse, amassing 24 goals and 81 points with a plus-52 rating. This season, he has appeared in nine games with the Lightning, recording one goal and maintaining a plus-1 rating, with an average ice time of 12:53 per game. Carlile was originally undrafted and signed by
the Lightning as a free agent in March 2022.
Why It's Important?
The recall of Declan Carlile is significant for the Tampa Bay Lightning as it strengthens their defensive lineup with a player who has demonstrated consistent performance in the AHL. Carlile's ability to contribute both offensively and defensively makes him a valuable asset to the team. His experience and performance in the AHL suggest he can provide depth and stability to the Lightning's defense, which is crucial as the team navigates the demands of the NHL season. For the Syracuse Crunch, Carlile's recall highlights the team's role in developing talent for the NHL, showcasing the effectiveness of their player development system. This move also underscores the importance of having a strong affiliate team to support the main roster during the season.
What's Next?
With Carlile joining the Lightning, he is expected to continue contributing to the team's defensive efforts. His performance in upcoming games will be closely watched as he aims to secure a more permanent role in the NHL. The Lightning will likely assess his impact on the team's overall performance and make further roster decisions based on his contributions. For the Syracuse Crunch, Carlile's absence will require adjustments, potentially providing opportunities for other players to step up and fill the gap left by his departure. The Crunch will continue to focus on developing players who can make the transition to the NHL, maintaining their reputation as a key feeder team for the Lightning.
