Lightning GM: 'No intention of trading' Kucherov
theScore • • sports
Key Points:
- Tampa Bay Lightning GM Julien BriseBois stated the team has no intention of trading star winger Nikita Kucherov despite reports that Kucherov requested a trade after informing the team he will not re-sign this summer.
- Kucherov, the reigning NHL MVP, made the trade request during a meeting with management and his agent, then informed teammates on a flight; he will continue playing for the Lightning while awaiting a potential trade.
- The 33-year-old is in the final year of a $9.5 million contract and was seeking a six-year extension worth around $20 million annually, but talks have stalled.
- Kucherov has spent his entire 13-year NHL career with Tampa Bay, leading the team to two Stanley Cup titles and recently becoming the franchise’s all-time points leader.
- The Lightning currently sit third in the Atlantic Division with an 8-3-1 record and have made the playoffs in nine consecutive seasons but have not advanced past the first round since 2021-22.
