Brandon Halverson has been recalled by the Tampa Bay Lightning from AHL Syracuse, strengthening goalie depth ahead of a road game at St. Louis. For bettors, this raises uncertainty about the Lightning’s starter — if Halverson draws the start, expect slightly higher game totals and value on goalie-save and shutout props; otherwise his recall mainly stabilizes the backup market, so watch the official starting-goalie announcement before wagering.
Brandon Halverson Recalled by Tampa Bay Lightning
The Tampa Bay Lightning have recalled goaltender Brandon Halverson from the Syracuse Crunch of the AHL for a second time this season, adding depth ahead of a road meeting with the St. Louis Blues. The move comes as Tampa Bay chases a franchise-best win streak, and it gives the club an experienced AHL option on its NHL roster.
AHL Performance and Recent Form
Halverson has been solid in Syracuse, posting a 12-6-2 record with a 2.42 goals-against average and an .899 save percentage in 20 appearances. He has recorded three shutouts this season, ranking near the top among AHL netminders. Across his AHL career, he’s played 129 games with a 59-49-17 mark, a .901 save percentage, 2.72 GAA and nine shutouts.
NHL Experience and Draft Background
A second-round pick in 2014 (No. 59 overall), Halverson was selected two rounds ahead of Igor Shesterkin. His NHL résumé is limited but varied: he made a relief appearance for the Rangers that included stopping five of six shots, logged a first NHL start that resulted in a challenging outing, and made a brief cameo appearance with Tampa Bay late in a December shootout game this season. The recall expands Tampa Bay’s goaltending options behind their established starters.
Career Arc: Setbacks and Comeback
Halverson’s path has included time in the ECHL, recovery from knee and wrist surgery, a season in Germany’s second division, and a return to North America via a PTO with Syracuse. Strong play in the 2023–24 AHL season earned him a two-year AHL deal and later a two-year, two-way NHL contract, reflecting a steady resurgence after injuries and roster turnover stalled his earlier NHL hopes.
Implications for Tampa Bay and Bettors
For the Lightning, Halverson’s recall is insurance and competition in net. For bettors, the key takeaway is uncertainty until the official starter is confirmed. If Halverson starts, markets may shift: game totals could tick upward and goalie-save or shutout props might offer value given his strong AHL form but limited NHL sample. If he serves as backup, the move mainly shores up depth and should have minimal immediate effect on lines. Monitor the Lightning’s pregame goalie announcement and any scratches before placing wagers.
What to Watch Next
Check Tampa Bay’s final roster and the official starting-goalie report before puck drop. Halverson’s performance in practice, the team’s defensive matchups, and late scratches will determine how much this recall moves betting markets and in-game expectations.
Goaltender Brandon Halverson, selected two rounds ahead of Igor Shesterkin by the New York Rangers in the 2014 draft, returned
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