The Tampa Bay Lightning claimed (now-former) New York Islanders goalie prospect Kevin Poulin off of waivers on Sunday, according to New York Newsday’s Arthur Staple.
Injuries opened up an obvious need at the backup position for the Lightning, at least in the short-to-medium term. Andrei Vasilevskiy is out after vascular surgery, while Kristers Gudlevskis was dealing with some bumps and bruises himself.
The biggest loser of this move might just be Ray Emery; the veteran goalie is battling for a gig in Lightning training camp.
Poulin, 25, found himself in limbo with the Islanders, as Jaroslav Halak and Thomas Greiss seemed firmly in place for the near future.
And now #Isles G situation quite clear: Halak/Greiss with the big club, Stephon Williams now No. 3 at age 22, in his first full pro year.
— Arthur Staple (@StapeAthletic) September 27, 2015
He still needs to make an impression sooner rather than later, but this move makes plenty of sense for just about everyone involved.
One other thing to possibly note, by the way:
One thing to keep in mind - IIRC - if TB places Poulin on waivers to send to Syracuse, NYI have 1st right to reclaim
— Lightning Insider (@Erik_Erlendsson) September 27, 2015
Update: Yes, indeed this was bad news for Emery.
#TBLightning claim G Kevin Poulin off waivers from Islanders and release Ray Emery from his pro tryout. #TBLightning
— Bryan Burns (@BBurnsNHL) September 27, 2015