Signed his entry-level contract in May 2024. Just getting signed is a big step for Gill, who was the third-to-last pick in the 2022 NHL Draft. Drafted for his physical profile, Gill had a lot of work to do on his technical skills and reading of the game. Since his draft year, he has shown clear and steady progression in all areas. He’s even seen some AHL action with the Syracuse Crunch, where he did not look out of place.

The Tampa Bay Lightning drafted Gill in the seventh round (223rd overall) in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft.

The main issue for Gill has been the significant time lost to major shoulder injuries, requiring separate surgeries on both shoulders. These injuries effectively voided his entire 2023-24 season and took a chunk out of 2024-25 as well. His game is built on doing the little things right, playing smart, and staying safe.

Set to play the next season in the AHL with the Crunch, Gill’s progression continues towards a bottom-pairing defenseman, but first, he has to establish himself at the AHL level. -Markus R