Tampa Bay Lightning acquire Nick Paul from Ottawa Senators for Mathieu Joseph, mid-round pick

Paul, 27, is a pending unrestricted free agent, in the final year of a deal that pays him $1.35 million annually; Ottawa retained 44.5 percent of his salary, though, bringing the cap charge down to $749,250. The Senators were reportedly trying to lock him up on a short-to-mid-term extension, but the two sides ultimately couldn't find common ground, which facilitated his trade to the Lightning.

In 58 games with the Senators this season, Paul has chipped in with 18 points while maintaining an exceptionally strong underlying defensive profile.

Nick Paul, traded to TB, is a defensive centre best-suited to a bottom-six and penalty kill role. Played significant minutes for the Sens this season showing a bit of offensive upside, however. #GoBolts pic.twitter.com/lPwgvQxjjU

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) March 20, 2022

The addition of Joseph is hardly anything to scoff at for the Senators here. His injection of speed and finishing skill will be a welcomed addition to their lineup, one that could desperately use help in both of those departments. He's also two years younger than Paul, and perhaps has some untapped upside that can be unlocked in Ottawa. Certainly, he'll get more chances there than he has with the Lightning.

Matthew Joseph, traded to OTT, is a defensive bottom-six forward and penalty kill specialist. Has shown flashes of efficient scoring and decent penalty impact. #GoSensGo pic.twitter.com/twKn5jiCJi

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) March 20, 2022

Joseph is a pending restricted free agent making $737,500 against the cap for the balance of this season. He's produced 18 points in 58 games with the Lightning this season.