See more Toronto Sun on Google — save as a Preferred Source Talk about a Friday night bombshell. Not only has Tampa Bay Lightning superstar Nikita Kucherov reportedly told the club he won’t re-sign before hitting free agency next summer, the 33-year-old winger wants to be traded.
Sportsnet hockey insider Elliotte Friedman was first to report the stunning news early Friday night. Kucherov, the reigning Hart Trophy winner and two-time Stanley Cup champion, is in the final season of eight-year contract that carries an annual average value of $9.5 million US.
Even at his age, it’s a pittance compared to what he should command on his next deal, especially with the way that contracts are skyrocketing under the rising salary cap. Future Hall of Famer Coming off four consecutive seasons in which he has recorded at least 113 points in each, Kucherov has 177 points in 159 Stanley Cup playoff games and could write his speech now for future Hall of Fame induction.
With 1,139 career points, Kucherov recently passed Steven Stamkos to take over the Tampa franchise lead. His 734 assists also are the most in Lightning history.
Never mind the Dylan Larkin saga with the Detroit Red Wings, this latest Kucherov development will garner the biggest headlines until there’s a resolution with the Lightning. Why it’s crucial that Chris Tanev is returning to Maple Leafs lineup Ex-NHL enforcer Paul Bissonnette goes on vulgar rant over transgender rights List of 10 teams Per puckpedia.com, Kucherov has a modified trade clause.
He has a list of 10 teams to which he would approve a trade. It’s potentially good news for the Leafs, of course, as Kucherov could be moved out of the Atlantic Division.
In 41 career games against the Leafs, Kucherov has 54 points (24 goals and 30 assists). Only against Buffalo, Detroit and Ottawa does Kucherov have more points in his National Hockey League career.
RECOMMENDED VIDEO In 12 games this season, Kucherov has 15 points (four goals and 11 assists). The Leafs and Lightning don’t play each other until Dec.
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