Tampa Bay Lightning Reassign Goaltender Matt Tomkins to Syracuse Crunch
The Tampa Bay Lightning have made a strategic move, reassigning goaltender Matt Tomkins to the Syracuse Crunch of the American Hockey League (AHL). This decision, announced by Vice President and General Manager Julien BriseBois, aligns with the Lightning’s development plan for Tomkins.
Tomkins’ AHL Performance
At 30 years old, Tomkins has continued to build on his AHL experience. In 17 games for the Crunch this season, he has posted a 6-8-3 record. His .900 save percentage and 2.87 goals-against average are strong indicators of his reliability in net. Tomkins has added a shutout to his AHL resume, which is a testament to his defensive skills at the professional level.
Throughout his career in the AHL, Tomkins has participated in 82 games with both the Syracuse Crunch and the Rockford IceHogs. In total, he boasts a 32-40-9 record, with a .899 save percentage and a 2.96 goals-against average. His two shutouts highlight his ability to command the net effectively.
NHL Experience
Tomkins has also made his mark in the National Hockey League (NHL). During the 2023-24 season, he appeared in six career NHL games, all for the Tampa Bay Lightning. His 3-2-1 record with an .892 save percentage and a 3.33 goals-against average in the NHL show that Tomkins can compete at the highest level.
One of his standout achievements in the NHL was recording his first career win against the Montreal Canadiens on November 7, 2023, with a solid 23-save performance. This victory underscores his growth and readiness to contribute at the NHL level.
Early Career
Matt Tomkins began his professional journey when he was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the seventh round, 199th overall, of the 2012 NHL Draft. His talents were later recognized by the Tampa Bay Lightning, who signed him as a free agent on May 10, 2023.
The Future of Tomkins
This reassignment to the Syracuse Crunch suggests that the Lightning consider Tomkins’ development a strategic priority. It provides him with another opportunity to hone his skills and compete regularly in professional hockey. The move also suggests that he remains an asset to the Lightning’s organization, as he returns to a familiar league for more playing time.
Conclusion
Matt Tomkins’ reassignment to the Syracuse Crunch is a significant decision that positions him well for future opportunities in both the AHL and NHL. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching his performance in the AHL to gauge his readiness for more NHL action.
Stay tuned for updates on Tomkins and other player movements as the season progresses. For more news and analysis, subscribe to Archynetys for the latest updates in the world of hockey. Your feedback and support are essential to our growing community of hockey enthusiasts.
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