Zaripov Interested In Lightning, But Is The Feeling Mutual?

By Monika Cook

Just recently the NHL approved Danis Zaripov to join the league following a doping ban in the KHL. Since the substance Zaripov got in trouble for does not go against NHL rules, as well as not allowing him to testify at his hearing, the NHL overruled his charge and allowed him to be eligible for the league.

Danis Zaripov, the 36-year-old 6-foot left wing, is only looking for a one year contract at the time. Seeking a team that will be a contender for the cup, the Lightning seems to be the perfect fit, as they just missed the playoffs last season after contending for the Cup the previous two years.

Looking into Zaripov’s previous hockey play, he would be a great asset to the Lightning organization. With the KHL’s Gagarin Cup under his belt for a total of 4 times as well as world champions 3 times, Zaripov is not new to the winning scene.  He also played in the Olympics in 2010 for Russia and has been an all star six times.

Luckily, the Lightning have the ability to add a couple more contracts to their 2017 season. As most fans know, the Lightning are mostly set for their forward players, but could definitely use a skilled player after trading Jonathan Drouin to Montreal. On the other hand, adding another forward player could hurt the depth we have, as well as shake up the chemistry in the locker room, two things that could potentially be good or bad.

As the season progresses closer starting with camp, fans and players can only sit and watch for any potential adding of Zaripov to the team.

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September 4th, 2017