The Tampa Bay Lightning have signed forward Gage Goncalves to a two-year deal, reflecting his strong performance during his rookie season. Announced by vice president and general manager Julien BriseBois, the contract carries an average annual value (AAV) of $1.2 million, demonstrating the team’s confidence in the 24-year-old’s potential.

Goncalves’ Impactful Debut and Rookie Season Highlights

Goncalves made his NHL debut on January 11, 2024, at AMALIE Arena, playing nine minutes in Tampa Bay’s 4-3 victory over the New Jersey Devils. The native of Mission, British Columbia, went on to take part in 62 regular-season games, including 60 games during the 2024-25 season. He tied for the team lead among rookies with eight goals and led rookie forwards in assists (12) and total points (20). His first NHL point came on November 21, 2024, against the Columbus Blue Jackets, and he recorded his first goal on December 19, 2024, facing the St. Louis Blues.

Playoff Contributions and Team Role

During the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Goncalves made his postseason debut on April 22, 2025, in the opening game of the first-round series versus the Florida Panthers, where he registered an assist. He played in all five playoff contests for Tampa Bay, accumulating four points, tied with star player Nikita Kucherov for the second-highest scoring total among Lightning skaters. Goncalves also ranked second among forwards for physical play, delivering 15 hits over the course of the playoff series.

From Draft Pick to Rising Talent

Originally selected by the Lightning as the 62nd overall pick in the second round of the 2020 NHL Draft, Goncalves has steadily developed into a reliable contributor for the Bolts. His steady progression and immediate impact in both regular and postseason play underline Tampa Bay’s decision to extend his contract.