What Happened
Nikita Kucherov is entering the final season of his eight-year, $76 million contract, and no extension was completed with the Tampa Bay Lightning over the summer. According to TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun, the winger does not plan to test free agency next July. LeBrun said on Insider Trading that the Lightning and agent Dan Milstein have not found the right number, but that everyone involved expects a deal to eventually get done.
Key Details
- Kucherov is in the last year of an eight-year, $76 million deal with a $9.5 million cap hit.
- LeBrun reports Kucherov has no intention of hitting the open market.
- Agent Dan Milstein declined to comment on talks throughout the summer.
- Kucherov said his focus is on helping the team this season.
- He recorded 44 goals and 130 points in 76 games last season.
- Tampa Bay was eliminated in the first round for a fourth straight season.
What It Means
Kucherov remains Tampa Bay's central offensive figure, having topped 110 points in each of the past four seasons while winning the Hart Trophy in 2019 and again as MVP last season. His comfort in a quieter market is a factor in his willingness to stay, per LeBrun. With no extension signed, the Lightning face a season in which their top forward plays on an expiring deal, though reporting indicates little concern inside the situation.
What's Next
Kucherov plays out the season while talks with Milstein continue. LeBrun reported no red flags beyond the absence of a signed deal, with all involved confident an extension will be reached. No timeline for an agreement has been reported.