Lightning's Slater Koekkoek: Returns to AHL Syracuse

Koekkoek was assigned to AHL Syracuse on Wednesday.

Analysis:

Koekkoek has not appeared in an NHL game this season despite being on the 23-man roster, and it appears the Lightning want to develop him further in the minors for the time being. Koekkoek has only appeared in nine NHL games since being selected No. 10 overall in the 2012 draft, but at 22 years old, the defenseman still has plenty of time to develop into an NHL-caliber player. The Lightning recalled Matt Taormina to replace him on the roster.