McKade Webster

August 2024 – Webster became an unrestricted free agent after not being offered a contract by the Tampa Bay Lightning on August 15, 2024, the NHL exclusive signing rights deadline. Mark Henry

July 2024 – Desperately needing to elevate his play, the now captain of the NCAA Champions may have just been able to elevate himself to a level where he could see an AHL offer. Still as reliable as ever in his end of the ice, the drastically improved offensive numbers might entice some teams to hand McKade a deal. Whether it is the Lightning or not remains to be seen, as at the time of writing, Webster will be a UFA on the 15th of August if the Lightning does not sign him. There is still a long way for Webster to make the NHL, and his low-scoring numbers in college hint at a player who will only play bottom-six defensive roles. Markus Roach

May 2023 – Webster has one more season to prove not only to Tampa Bay but to teams in any league, that he is worth a contract. Throughout three offensively underwhelming seasons at the University of Denver, Webster has not really elevated his finishing ability to a level that will make him an impactful scorer at higher levels. His two-way game is fine for the NCAA level and could someday make him a valuable bottom-six winger in a lower-tier professional league. That being said, a large uptick in production is likely needed if Webster hopes to land himself a contract with any NHL team next summer. Wade Messier

June 2019 – Webster was drafted in the Seventh Round of the 2019 Draft by the Lightning at 213th Overall. After going undrafted in 2018, Webster returned to the Green Bay Gamblers for his second season in the USHL, however, injury limited him to just six games in 2018-2019, where he posted just two assists after notching 11 goals and 30 points in 58 games in 2017-2018. Webster’s offensive potential is bolstered by his skating and forechecking ability, as he’s able to close gaps on defenders well and pounce on turnovers in order to generate scoring opportunities. Lacks high-end skill and offensive zone vision, and likely carries most of his value as a depth forward if he reaches the next level. Brandon Holmes