According to multiple reports, Tampa Bay Lightning star Nikita Kucherov — the reigning Hart Memorial Trophy-winner as the NHL’s MVP — has informed the team that he will not re-sign and would like a trade.
Go ahead and pick your jaw up off the floor after that one.
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported that Kucherov had informed the team and his teammates of his plans to sign elsewhere when his 8-year, $76 million deal ends after this season.
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On top of that, Friedman reports that the two-time Hart Trophy winner and two-time Stanley Cup champion has asked the club for a trade, though Lightning general manager Julien BriseBois and Kucherov’s agent, Dan Milstein, declined to comment.
The prevailing thought was that Kucherov would almost certainly re-sign with the Lightning. He’s been their centerpiece through three runs to the Stanley Cup Final and the team is still playing well. They’re currently third in the Atlantic Division, just two points out of first place.
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However, if Friedman’s report proves to be on the money, things could get wild.
If Kucherov has indeed indicated he won’t re-sign, the Lightning will obviously look to trade him rather than let the reigning league MVP walk for nothing.
The 33-year-old Russian currently has a modified no-trade clause, which shouldn’t be too limiting when it comes to getting a deal done.
The problem may be that the Lightning will want a hefty return for such a high-end player, while potential trade partners will likely want assurances that paying a high price will secure Kucherov’s services beyond this season.
So far this season, Kucherov has 4 goals and 11 assists in 14 games.
Last season he had 130 points (44G, 86A), which was his fourth-straight season with over 110 points.