The Tampa Bay Lightning's 2026 Development Camp opened on Monday, kicking off a week of player testing, skating work and off‑ice sessions that will culminate in a public 3‑on‑3 tournament.
Prospects and Invitations
The camp features 27 skaters, 19 of whom were drafted by the organization, while seven invitees from outside the system hope to earn a contract and prove they belong in the professional ranks.
A New Face in the Mix
Forward Jack Pridham, a third‑round selection of the Chicago Blackhawks in 2024, has drawn attention for his blend of speed, hockey sense and offensive instincts, and he has spoken openly about his excitement to test himself against the Lightning’s talent.
Pridham, who will begin his collegiate career at the University of Denver in the 2026‑27 season, described himself as an all‑around player and praised the organization’s development environment.
Veteran Guidance
Former Lightning goaltender Mike McKenna and alumni forward Pat Maroon are serving as volunteer coaches, offering mentorship to the younger net‑minders and sharing lessons learned from their own NHL experiences.
McKenna, who started 14 games for Tampa Bay during the 2008‑09 season before opening a small business in St. Louis, said he hopes to pass on insights that can help the next generation of goalies.
Maroon, now working within the Lightning’s hockey operations department, accepted the volunteer role to learn from other coaches and keep his connection to the game alive.
The invitation list also includes forwards Carlin Dezainde, a University of Connecticut alumnus, and Jacob Mathieu, who posted 30 points in 32 games for Northeastern University last season.
Anthony Thomas‑Maroon, son of Pat Maroon, wrapped his most recent campaign with the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the USHL, while defenseman Elliot Arnett, the lone blue‑liner invited after a season with the Owen Sound Attack in the OHL, brings a defensive perspective.
Goaltenders Danick Leroux and Gavin Betts round out the group, with Leroux having played NCAA hockey for Holy Cross and Betts posting a 21‑18‑2 record with a .905 save percentage for the Kingston Frontenacs in the OHL.
Looking Ahead
Throughout the week, players will take part in daily on‑ice drills, strength sessions and off‑ice workshops, giving staff a comprehensive view of each prospect’s readiness for professional competition. The final 3‑on‑3 tournament, open to the public, will showcase the talent that could shape the Lightning’s future roster.