Lightning's Waltteri Merela: Headed to Switzerland
Rotowire
Merela signed a one-year contract with SC Bern of Switzerland's National League on Monday, per Eduardo A. Encina of the Tampa Bay Times.
Merela is eligible for restricted free agency in July, so Tampa Bay could retain his NHL rights by extending a qualifying offer. The 25-year-old forward produced one goal, 17 shots and 32 hits in 19 regular-season appearances with the Lightning during the 2023-24 campaign. Merela also registered 15 goals and 34 points across 55 regular-season outings for AHL Syracuse this past season before adding three goals in eight playoff contests.
... See More... See Less
Lightning's Waltteri Merela: Sent back to Syracuse
Rotowire
Merela was reassigned to AHL Syracuse on Sunday.
With the Lightning off until Feb. 7, Merela will return to Syracuse after playing 19 games in the NHL. He scored one goal while averaging 9:49 TOI in a fourth-line role. The rookie winger could return to Tampa following the break if Tanner Jeannot (lower body) and Austin Watson (lower body) remain unavailable.
... See More... See Less
Lightning's Waltteri Merela: Recalled from AHL affiliate
Rotowire
Merela was promoted from AHL Syracuse on Tuesday.
Merela has drawn into 14 games with the Lightning this season, going scoreless while averaging 10:35 of ice time over that span. He's fared far better in the minors, totaling 16 points through 23 games with Syracuse.
... See More... See Less
Lightning's Waltteri Merela: Reassigned to minors
Rotowire
Merela was demoted to AHL Syracuse on Friday.
The decision to send Merela back to the minors could be an indication that Anthony Cirelli (undisclosed) will be cleared to face Edmonton on Saturday. The 25-year-old Merela has yet to secure his first NHL point despite 14 appearances this season in which he's averaged 10:35 of ice time.
