Does anyone really believe the Lightning is not going to make more moves?

Despite GM Brian Lawton saying "nothing is imminent," the clearing of almost $3-million in cap space, gives the team all the "breathing room" it needs. It also has 14 forwards and it is not difficult to believe the team would listen to offers about goal-less, at least entering Saturday, right wing Radim Vrbata.

A trade also would be a way for the Lightning to maintain or even reduce the $48-million cashout it is paying in salaries. Owners Oren Koules and Len Barrie have said they want that part of the equation at about $47-million or so.

What we're saying, here, is the stage is set for the team to do some more maneuvering. Lawton and ownership like the overall direction of the team. Thursday's game with the Rangers was intense and not nearly the blowout the 5-2 score would indicate. But the feeling also is the chemistry isn't quite right, that something is missing.

To be fair, this might not be a quick fix. It's foolish to believe one trade is going to provide the blue-liner that can run the power play or the finisher that will  kick-start the offense. This seems like it's going to be an ongoing theme.

It is clear, though, that all the maneuvers during the summer have not panned out and Lawton has jumped into the fray.