A New Chapter for a Rising Goaltender
The National Hockey League confirmed a July 2024 trade that sent goaltender Dennis Hildeby from the Toronto Maple Leafs to the Tampa Bay Lightning, marking the start of a new chapter for the 24‑year‑old Swede.
Standing 6‑foot‑7, Hildeby uses his imposing frame to command his crease, a trait that has defined his style since his early days in Jarfalla, Sweden.
Across 96 American Hockey League appearances he compiled a 47‑29‑16 record with a .906 save percentage, and last season he logged a career‑high 20 NHL games, posting a .914 save percentage and a 2.86 goals‑against average.
His first career shutout arrived on December 8, when he turned away all 29 shots in a 2‑0 victory over the Lightning, a performance that highlighted his readiness for more consistent NHL minutes.
Hildeby is signed to an NHL minimum contract for the next two seasons and will become a restricted free agent in 2028, giving the Lightning flexibility as they assess his development trajectory.
‘I’m excited to join a successful organization and learn from role models like Andrei Vasilevskiy,’ Hildeby said, expressing his eagerness to grow under the guidance of one of the league’s premier netminders.
General manager Julien BriseBois praised the acquisition, noting that the team values competition and believes Hildeby’s size, work ethic, and potential can add depth to the roster as the club looks ahead to the next two seasons.