What happened: The Tampa Bay Lightning have reportedly submitted an initial five-year, $28.75 million contract offer to defenseman Darren Raddysh. The deal carries an average annual value of $5.75 million as the 30-year-old veteran approaches unrestricted free agency on July 1.

Why it matters: Raddysh is coming off a massive breakout season where he posted career highs in goals and points, establishing himself as a top-pairing fixture for the Tampa Bay Lightning. While the offer provides long-term security, it reportedly sits below market projections that could reach $8 million annually in a thin free agent class.

What to watch: Negotiations are expected to intensify as Raddysh evaluates his market value against a $104 million salary cap before the July 1 deadline.