The Tampa Bay Lightning are making strategic moves to clear salary cap space, especially with Cam Atkinson and Logan Brown clearing waivers. Atkinson's $900,000 cap hit can now be buried, and Brown, with a $775,000 cap hit after signing a two-way NHL contract, adds flexibility. As the trade deadline approaches, rumors swirl about potential trades involving key players like Yanni Gourde and Oliver Bjorkstrand.

Several teams are active on the waiver wire, with the Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, and Florida Panthers also making adjustments. Detroit, eyeing a playoff spot, is clearing significant cap space, possibly over $13 million after burying Christian Fischer's contract. This dynamic environment sets the stage for further trades leading up to the deadline.