The Tampa Bay Lightning may not be able to convince Nikita Kucherov to stay following his stunning trade request.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that the superstar forward has grown frustrated with the slow pace of contract negotiations.
Friedman also suggested that convincing Kucherov to reconsider could turn out difficult, citing conversations with people familiar with the two-time Hart Trophy winner.
The revelation came during Sportsnet’s “Saturday Headlines” segment on Oct. 31, one day after reports surfaced that Kucherov had informed the Lightning he wouldn’t sign a contract extension and wanted to be traded.
Elliotte Friedman Reveals Nikita Kucherov’s Contract Frustration
Friedman provided more details about Kucherov’s contract situation during Saturday’s broadcast, identifying the pace of negotiations as a big factor behind the trade request.
“The lack of pace” in contract discussions was a big reason for Kucherov informing the organization that he intended to leave, according to Friedman.
However, the insider also shared a troubling viewpoint of the Lightning’s chances of changing the superstar’s mind.
“Once he makes a decision, it’s hard to make him change his mind,” Friedman said, relaying what those individuals told him.
The assessment suggests that Tampa Bay could face an uphill battle in making Kucherov reverse his position, even if the organization becomes more aggressive in contract negotiations.
Kucherov is currently playing out the final season of an eight-year, $76 million contract signed in July 2018.
The agreement has an average annual value of $9.5 million, and the reigning NHL MVP is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent following the 2026-27 season.
Despite the unknown ahead, Lightning general manager Julien BriseBois has made it clear that the organization doesn’t intend to accommodate Kucherov’s reported request.
“We unequivocally have no intention of trading Nikita,” BriseBois said in a statement released Friday.
Lightning Face Uncertain Future With Nikita Kucherov
The situation presents a challenge for Tampa Bay, which could risk losing its franchise mainstay without compensation if the two sides fail to reach an agreement.
Kucherov has spent his entire NHL career with the Lightning, helping the organization capture consecutive Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021.
He also recently surpassed Steven Stamkos to become Tampa Bay’s all-time leading scorer.
Friedman’s latest comments point to the fact that the disagreement extends past simply identifying an acceptable contract figure, with Kucherov reportedly dissatisfied by how negotiations have unfolded.
Even so, the forward is committed to fulfilling his responsibilities on the ice.
Kucherov recorded three assists during Tampa Bay’s 5-4 shootout loss to the Nashville Predators on Saturday, Oct. 31, putting forth a productive performance not long after his trade request became public.
Lightning head coach Jon Cooper praised Kucherov’s commitment following the defeat.
“He’s a proud Bolt,” Cooper said, underscoring that the veteran came into the contest looking to help the team win.
Meanwhile, Friedman has identified the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens as two potential destinations Kucherov would consider if Tampa Bay decided to trade him.
At the moment, though, the Lightning appear determined to retain their superstar.
Lightning Get Concerning Nikita Kucherov Warning Amidst Trade Request