Tampa Bay Lightning secured the rights to forward prospect Jack Pridham in a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks on Monday. The 20‑year‑old, drafted third round in 2024, had racked up 46 goals and 44 assists in 65 OHL games for Kitchener. Pridham also helped the Rangers capture the OHL championship and Memorial Cup for the team’s future prospects in 2026.

Pridham committed to NCAA play next season, a move Tampa Bay confirmed, with the school announcement expected shortly. In exchange, the Blackhawks received a third‑round pick in the 2027 draft. By locking Pridham, Lightning position themselves to develop a young winger who has shown scoring prowess, potentially filling a gap in their forward depth chart for the upcoming season.

This trade underscores Tampa Bay’s strategy of acquiring high‑potential prospects to bolster future competitiveness. Pridham’s 46‑goal season and playoff experience signal a promising transition to the NHL. The Blackhawks’ return of a draft pick may aid their rebuild, while Lightning secure a young talent likely to contribute once he transitions from college to the professional ranks in 2026 season ahead.