The Tampa Bay Lightning are making moves to keep their defensive core intact, signing J.J. Moser to a massive eight-year deal worth $54 million.
The contract will pay the 25-year-old Swiss defenseman $6.75 million per season through 2033-34.
It’s a big bet on a player who’s really stepped up this year. Moser has been a bright spot for the Lightning, especially with all their injury troubles on defense.
He’s put up three goals and 12 points in 34 games this season. While those numbers might not jump off the page, they’re actually on pace to be among his best yet.
But here’s the thing – stats don’t tell the whole story with Moser.
The Biel, Switzerland native has become one of Tampa’s most reliable defenders since coming over in the Mikhail Sergachev trade two summers ago. He’s the kind of player coaches love – smart with the puck, solid in his own end, and always seems to make the right play.
This deal looks like a smart move for the Lightning. Instead of letting Moser hit restricted free agency this summer, where he could’ve gone to arbitration, they’ve locked him up long-term.
For Moser, it’s life-changing money and security. For Tampa, it’s another piece of their future defense locked into place.
The timing couldn’t be better for both sides, with Moser playing some of his best hockey in a Lightning uniform.
