Insider Confirms Expensive Kucherov Contract Rumor, Changing Trade Optics

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Elliotte Friedman reported on his most recent 32 Thoughts podcast episode that the rumors of Nikita Kucherov asking for six years at $20 million per season are likely accurate. As such, that number may take several teams out of the running for his services if there’s a trade with a contract extension attached to it.

Some teams won’t be in the market for him at that price. Others may wait until free agency to make their push, while others will drop out of the running.

Friedman explains:

“I had one GM tell me that, based on that report of 6 x $20 million, whether it’s right or wrong in terms of what he actually wants, I do believe the report was correct this weekend. You know, now that if you want to get into this poker game, you’re anteing up. You have to be prepared to put up $120 million.”

He adds, “So there’s a lot of organizations right now sitting there asking themselves: If this guy is available, are we willing to pay $120 million?

The answer for some will be no.

That doesn’t mean Kucherov isn’t a top-five player in the NHL. Currently, he is. However, he’s also 33 years old. A six-year deal would put him around 39-40. His production will decline, and while $20 million might not be a top-10 salary in four years, it’s a lot to invest in someone who is getting older and will be slowing down. He’s elite, but for how much longer?

This Could Explain Tampa’s Stance on the Kucherov Negotiations

In most other situations, all 31 other NHL teams would be intrigued. At these rates, it’s a bigger gamble, and one a few franchises won’t be comfortable making.

This could explain why Tampa offered what they did. Kevin Weekes reports: “Per sources, I’m told the first offer was around $13 million, revised offer $15 million only after Leo Carlsson‘s $ 18 million offer sheet and Cale Makar‘s $ 20 million deal.” The reason Kucherov reportedly told the Lightning he wanted out was because they were dragging their feet on a new contract. They see him as worth a certain amount. He clearly sees differently.

Will other teams see him the way he sees himself?

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Kraken, Predators, Canadiens, Lightning & Maple Leafs