Goalie Rick Tabaracci wants to be traded, and Lightning general manager Phil Esposito said Thursday he is prepared to do just that.
"If the opportunity arises," Esposito said, "Yes, I will."
Tabaracci's desire to leave is prompted not by any unhappiness in Tampa Bay but because he wants regular playing time. With Daren Puppa healthy following back surgery at this beginning of this season and 26-year-old Corey Schwab still under contract, the careerlong backup faces an uncertain amoutn of playing time if he stays in Tampa Bay.
"He wants to go somewhere where he can play," Esposito said, "And I understand that."
Esposito said he has been shopping Tabaracci for some time, but he would not say which teams are interested.
One possibility is Ottawa, which recently signed veteran backup Ron Tugnutt to a multiyear contract but might be looking to replace regular-season No. 1 Damian Rhodes.
Esposito traded for Tabaracci Nov. 19 after it had become apparent a herniated disc would keep Puppa out most of the season. The 28-year-old journeyman came from Calgary for center Aaron GAvey.
Tabaracci appeared in 55 games for the Lightning, going 20-25-6 with a 2.75 goals-against-average and becoming the first Tampa Bay goalie besides Puppa to post 20 or more wins in a season.
The Lightning considered parting with Tabaracci at the trading deadline but decided against a deal because it was still in the playoff hunt and Puppa was not ready for a full-time return.
With the draft June 21, Tabaracci's days with the Lightning could be numbered.
"I've talked to different teams, and I know what I want and what I need," Esposito said. "I think I'll be able to get something and accommodate Tabby, too."