Kostka claimed off waivers by Lightning

[Axeman33]

https://twitter.com/LightningTimes/s...96950154960896

Lightning adds D Mike Kostka off waivers. "I like his brain," coach Jon Cooper says http://fw.to/c4RYZUM

The Lightning added some depth to its NHL roster by claiming defenseman Mike Kostka off waivers from the Blackhawks. Kosta played for coach Jon Cooper at AHL Norfolk during the Admirals 2011-12 Calder Cup run.

"I really like his brain," Cooper said. "He can think the game well, has poise under pressure and he can shoot it," Cooper said. "He has the ability to play on the power play. To have guys that versatile, and a right-handed shot, that's something we felt woulod help give us a little depth back there."

Kostka might not be an immediate addition to Tampa Bay's lineup, Cooper said, but he added, "You can never have enough depth back there. We think he's somebody who can help our team. And he's a great teammate."

Kostka, 28, has two goals, three points in nine games this season with Chicago. In 2011-12 with Norfolk, Kostka had seven goals, 32 points in 52 games. He had six goals, 12 points in 18 playoff games and was plus-14.

"Mike's an NHL defenseman," Cooper said. "We think he'll be a good fit."

[Excelsior]

LOL beat you to it a couple of hours ago.

Cooper like him that's for sure.

[Axeman33]

Did you already post that? Sorry, I didnt see the thread and it was just rolling through my twitter feed.

[Excelsior]

Did you already post that? Sorry, I didnt see the thread and it was just rolling through my twitter feed.

No problem.

Do you think he'll play in the NHL right away or be sent down to the AHL?

[Axeman33]

Considering he would have to clear waivers to go to the AHL, I doubt Tampa risks losing him after just getting him. I'd say he sticks.

[Chili con Carne]

Isn't Carle nursing a foot injury? Wonder if it may have something to do with that. Well, that plus the fact that Salo could go down with the next stiff breeze.

[MXHockey]

Nice depth claim TBL...............

[The Hockey Hitman]

You know what, Kostka is a prime example of a player who is good enough to play in the NHL but keeps getting the short end of the stick. When used properly, he can be a solid depth addition. He's gone from been discarded by Tampa Bay two years ago, to playing on avg. 22 minutes a night last season w/ Toronto to barely getting a chance in Chicago. So he's gone from being overused in Toronto to underused in Chicago within a year. I think returning to Tampa Bay will be good for him, as Cooper was his coach when the team was in Norfolk and he has a history of getting the best out of his players. Not fantasy worthy by any means, just a decent depth pickup for Tampa Bay.