Nikita Kucherov Requests Trade From Lightning, Eyes Superstar Teammate

Reigning Hart Trophy winner Nikita Kucherov has requested a trade from the Tampa Bay Lightning after contract negotiations stalled. The 33-year-old alternate captain is in the final year of his contract with a $9.5 million AAV and is seeking potentially double that figure on his next deal. Kucherov, who holds a 10-team approved trade list, reportedly wants to play alongside another top superstar, rendering teams like Philadelphia unlikely fits.