Brandon Hagel powers the Tampa Bay Lightning with elite two-way play—has the NHL finally underestimated him for the last time? Nick Morgan breaks down Hagel’s impact as the Lightning’s emotional heartbeat, from his playoff heroics and leadership to his bargain long-term contract. Hagel’s versatility on special teams and clutch performances spark the debate: Is he the league’s most underrated player?
Morgan also tackles the league-wide shift in contract strategy with Macklin Celebrini’s record-breaking deal and what it means for the future of young stars like Leo Carlsson and Connor Bedard. Plus, the episode revisits Lightning history, comparing the improbable 2004 Stanley Cup run to the back-to-back championships in 2020 and 2021—was the original triumph actually more impressive? Don’t miss this sharp analysis of player value, NHL contract trends, and what sets Tampa Bay apart.
Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
🎧 https://tinyurl.com/yyk2dty5
Locked On NHL League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Prospects & More
🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNHL
Follow Us on Social Media!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lockedonlightning/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lockedonlightning
X: https://x.com/LO_Lightning
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
FanDuel
Today’s episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)
I hope he wins a cup. Same with D’astous.
Can't wait to see him and Cirelli, along with James, O'Reilly and Mikayev!! This could be the year Tampa gets the cup back!
Im kinda scared to see what the Kucherov contract might look like. Market for rookies has been crazy. I cant imagine he wouldn't have a case for a max contract on a short term deal.
Hagel is a dog,he's the most gritty in your face guy on this team,I'd say he's the heart beat on this team,seems worthy of a C on his chest to me