Preseason Begins: Jon Cooper's Message, Line Combinations & Biggest Camp Battles | Lightning Power Lunch - September 18, 2026

The Tampa Bay Lightning preseason is here, and Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli break down the biggest storylines heading into Game 1. The guys discuss Jon Cooper's comments on maintaining the organization's championship standard, what the Lightning can learn from last season's playoff exit, and why this year's team could develop a different identity despite returning much of its core. They also dive into early training camp line combinations, the addition of John Carlson, Ilya Mikheyev's opportunity alongside Brayden Point and Nikita Kucherov, and what Lightning fans should watch for during the preseason. Plus, a look at the roster battles involving Conor Geekie, Sam O'Reilly, Jacob Pelletier, Dylan Duke and other prospects pushing for NHL jobs. Topics include: Lightning preseason Game 1 preview Jon Cooper on last season and playoff lessons Training camp line combinations and defensive pairings Conor Geekie, Sam O'Reilly and prospect watch John Carlson's impact on the blue line and power play Brayden Point, Nikita Kucherov and offensive expectations Early-season roster battles and camp standouts ⚡ Subscribe for daily Lightning coverage, game previews, postgame analysis, interviews and insights throughout the 2026-27 season. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #NHL #LightningPowerLunch #NikitaKucherov #BraydenPoint #JohnCooper #HockeyPodcast #TampaBaySports #NHLPreseasonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.