Nikita Kucherov Wants Out, Asks Tampa Bay Lightning For Trade

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The Tampa Bay Lightning may be facing the loss of their biggest star. According to multiple sources, including Elliotte Friedman, Nikita Kucherov has told both his teammates and the organization that he will not re-sign with Tampa Bay and would like to be traded.

“According to multiple sources, Nikita Kucherov has informed both his teammates and the Lightning organization that he will not be re-signing with Tampa Bay and would like to be traded.”

The reasons behind the decision remain unclear. Kucherov, the league’s reigning MVP, is in the final season of an eight-year, $76-million contract.

Lightning GM Julien BriseBois and Kucherov’s agent, Dan Milstein, both declined to comment. That said, Pierre LeBrun is reporting: “Nikita Kucherov and his agent Dan Milstein just wrapped up a meeting within the last half hour with Tampa GM Julien BriseBois advising that the Hart Trophy winner is asking for a trade. Kucherov told his teammates on the plane.”

The news is a major surprise. Kucherov’s long-term future in Tampa had appeared close to a sure thing, and few saw this coming. It’s now unclear how the situation will play out before the trade deadline or when free agency opens on July 1, but Kucherov has made it known that he’s unhappy and prefers to move on.

Kucherov makes $9.5 million this season and has a 10-team trade list. It is unclear which teams he would put on a short list, or whether the Lightning will try to accommodate his trade request. The Lightning sit third in the Atlantic Division with an 8-3-1 record.

This story is developing, and more details are expected.

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