Nikita Kucherov: Difference between revisions

Browse history interactively

← Previous edit

Content deleted Content added

VisualWikitext

Revision as of 16:17, 5 June 2024 edit Gymrat16 (talk \| contribs) Extended confirmed users 2,736 edits m →‎Playing career ← Previous edit		Latest revision as of 18:50, 11 July 2024 edit undo GreenC bot (talk \| contribs) Bots 2,210,134 edits Move 4 urls. Wayback Medic 2.5 per WP:URLREQ#tampabay.com
(6 intermediate revisions by 4 users not shown)
Line 30: Kucherov played for [[Krasnaya Armiya (MHL)\|Krasnaya Armiya]] of the Russian [[Junior Hockey League (Russia)\|Junior Hockey League]], the junior team of [[HC CSKA Moscow\|CSKA Moscow]] starting in the [[2009–10 MHL season\|2009–10]]. He spent three seasons with the team and made his professional debut in the [[Kontinental Hockey League]] (KHL) during this time, playing 27 KHL games over the [[2010–11 KHL season\|2010–11]] and [[2011–12 KHL season\|2011–12]] seasons. In the [[2011 NHL Entry Draft]], he was selected 58th overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning. In an attempt to transition to the North American style, Kucherov played [[major junior hockey]] with the [[Rouyn-Noranda Huskies]] of the [[Quebec Major Junior Hockey League]] (QMJHL). He signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Lightning on 10 September 2012 while playing in the QMJHL.<ref>{{cite web \|title=Lightning Sign 2011 Second-Round Pick Nikita Kucherov \|url=http://theqmjhl.ca/lightning-sign-2011-second-round-pick-nikita-kucherov/ \|website=theqmjhl.ca \|access-date=11 February 2019 \|date=10 September 2012 \|archive-date=12 February 2019 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190212013419/http://theqmjhl.ca/lightning-sign-2011-second-round-pick-nikita-kucherov/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> ===Tampa Bay Lightning (2013–present)=== ====Early years, "The Triplets" era (2013–2015)==== Kucherov made his NHL debut on 25 November 2013 against the [[New York Rangers]]. He scored a goal on his first shot, on his first shift, against [[Henrik Lundqvist]]; he was the seventh player in Lightning history to score a goal in his NHL debut.<ref>{{cite web \| url = http://tbo.com/sports/lightning/bolts-notes-kucherov-provides-early-debut-goal-20131125/ \| title = Kucherov provides early debut goal \| publisher = TBO.com \| date = 25 November 2013 \| access-date = 25 November 2013 \| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150714095627/http://tbo.com/sports/lightning/bolts-notes-kucherov-provides-early-debut-goal-20131125/ \| archive-date = 14 July 2015 \| url-status = dead }}</ref> On 23 December 2013, Kucherov recorded his first NHL assist on a goal by [[J. T. Brown (ice hockey)\|J. T. Brown]]. His [[2013–14 NHL season\|rookie season]] would end with Kucherov playing in 52 games with nine goals and nine assists for 18 points. Kucherov made his playoff debut in the opening game in the opening round of the [[2014 Stanley Cup playoffs\|2014 playoffs]] against the [[Montreal Canadiens]] on 16 April 2014, where he would score his first career playoff goal on goaltender [[Carey Price]]. Line 39: In the [[2015–16 Tampa Bay Lightning season\|2015–16 season]], Kucherov led the team in points (66) and was second in assists (36) and goals (30), playing in 77 games while playing most of the season on the first line with [[Alex Killorn]] and captain [[Steven Stamkos]]. Kucherov also set a career-high in goals (30), points (36), power-play goals (9) and game-winning goals (4). He also ranked second on the team in shots (209) and power-play goals, while also leading the team with 19 multi-point games. He also skated in all 17 Stanley Cup playoff games with the Lightning last season in their run to the Eastern Conference Finals where the Lightning would fall to the [[Pittsburgh Penguins]] in seven games, coming just one win short from a second straight appearance in the Stanley Cup Finals, scoring 11 goals, eight assists and 19 points to go along with a +13 rating. He led the team during the [[2016 Stanley Cup playoffs\|2016 playoffs]] in goals and points.<ref name = "re-sign"/> On 11 October 2016, the Lightning re-signed Kucherov to a three-year, $14.3 million contract.<ref name = "re-sign">{{cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/lightning/news/lightning-re-sign-nikita-kucherov-to-3-year-contract/c-282554012\|title=Lightning re-sign Nikita Kucherov to 3-year contract\|author=Tampa Bay Lightning\|work=Tampa Bay Lightning.com\|date=11 October 2016\|access-date=11 October 2016\|archive-date=12 October 2016\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161012075947/https://www.nhl.com/lightning/news/lightning-re-sign-nikita-kucherov-to-3-year-contract/c-282554012\|url-status=live}}</ref> On 29 December, Kucherov recorded his 100th assist on a goal by [[Ondřej Palát]] in a 3–2 loss to the [[Toronto Maple Leafs]]. On 10 January 2017, Kucherov was named to the [[62nd National Hockey League All-Star Game\|2017 NHL All-Star game]] as a member of the Atlantic Division team.<ref name="makes all-star team">{{cite web\|url=~~http~~https://www.tampabay.com/victor-hedman-nikita-kucherov-make-all-star-team/2309071/\|title=Victor Hedman, Nikita Kucherov make All-Star team\|first=Joe\|last=Smith\|work=Tampa Bay Times\|date=10 January 2017\|access-date=22 January 2018\|archive-date=23 January 2018\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180123075358/http://www.tampabay.com/victor-hedman-nikita-kucherov-make-all-star-team/2309071\|url-status=live}}</ref> On 21 February, Kucherov recorded his 200th career NHL point with an assist on a goal by Ondřej Palát.<ref>{{Cite tweet \|user=TBLightning \|number=834217077917499392 \|date = 21 February 2017 \|title=Kucherov records 200th career NHL point}}</ref> On 27 February, Kucherov recorded his second career hat-trick against the [[Ottawa Senators]], which was the 10th natural hat-trick in Lightning history. It was also the first ever in team history to have all three goals scored during the power plays.<ref>{{Cite tweet \|user=BBurnsNHL \|number=836561650710786048 \|date = 27 February 2017 \|title=Kucherov records 10th natural hat trick in TBL history, and first to be all on the power play}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/news/kucherovs-hat-trick-helps-lightning-turn-back-senators-033756724--nhl.html\|title=Kucherov's hat trick helps Lightning turn back Senators 5-1\|first=Dick\|last=Scanlon\|work=Yahoo Sports: NHL\|date=27 February 2017\|access-date=27 February 2017\|archive-date=28 February 2017\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228205336/http://sports.yahoo.com/news/kucherovs-hat-trick-helps-lightning-turn-back-senators-033756724--nhl.html\|url-status=dead}}</ref> On 18 March, Kucherov recorded his 100th career NHL goal in a 5–3 loss to the [[Washington Capitals]] on goaltender [[Braden Holtby]].<ref>{{Cite tweet \|user=TBLightning \|number=843248439517466624 \|date = 19 March 2017 \|title=Kucherov scores 100th career NHL goal}}</ref> On 23 March, Kucherov also recorded his second hat trick in less than a month apart from his first in the 2016–17 season against the [[Boston Bruins]].<ref>{{cite web \|url=http://www.csnphilly.com/philadelphia-flyers/best-nhl-nikita-kucherov-hat-trick-lifts-lightning-over-bruins \|title=Best of NHL: Nikita Kucherov Hat Trick Lifts Lightning over Bruins \|author=<!--Not stated--> \|date=24 March 2017 \|website=csnphilly.com \|publisher=[[NBC Sports Regional Networks\|CSN]] \|access-date=8 April 2017 \|archive-date=8 April 2017 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170408171759/http://www.csnphilly.com/philadelphia-flyers/best-nhl-nikita-kucherov-hat-trick-lifts-lightning-over-bruins \|url-status=live }}</ref> This also became his third hat trick in his NHL career. On 27 March, Kucherov had two assists on goals by Ondřej Palát and [[Jonathan Drouin]] in a 5–4 overtime win over the [[Chicago Blackhawks]], setting a Lightning record for most points in a single month with 22.<ref>{{cite web \|url=http://www.espn.com/nhl/recap?gameId=400885520 \|title=Gourde scores in OT, Lightning beat Blackhawks 5-4 \|author=<!--Not stated--> \|date=27 March 2017 \|website=espn.com \|publisher=[[ESPN]] \|access-date=28 March 2017 \|archive-date=28 March 2017 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170328021331/http://www.espn.com/nhl/recap?gameId=400885520 \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 7 April, Kucherov scored his 40th goal of the season against [[Carey Price]] of the [[Montreal Canadiens]], setting a new career high in goals.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/tampa-bay-lightning-montreal-canadiens-game-recap/c-288554742\|title=Lightning stay alive in wild-card race\|first=Sean\|last=Farrell\|work=NHL.com\|date=7 April 2017\|access-date=7 April 2017\|archive-date=9 April 2017\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170409021207/https://www.nhl.com/news/tampa-bay-lightning-montreal-canadiens-game-recap/c-288554742\|url-status=live}}</ref> With his 40th goal, Kucherov joined Steven Stamkos, [[Vincent Lecavalier]], [[Martin St. Louis]], and [[Brian Bradley (ice hockey, born 1965)\|Brian Bradley]] as the only players in Lightning history with 40-goal seasons.<ref>{{Cite tweet \|user=StatsCentre \|number=850504021232189441 \|date = 7 April 2017 \|title=Kucherov joins Stamkos, Lecavalier, St. Louis, Bradley as only players to score 40-goals in a single season in Lightning history}}</ref> Additionally, Kucherov joined [[Alexander Ovechkin]], [[Evgeni Malkin]], [[Ilya Kovalchuk]], [[Pavel Bure]], and [[Alexander Mogilny]] as the only Russian-born players with a 40-goal season at age 23 or younger.<ref>{{Cite tweet \|user=StatsCentre \|number=850506638696034304 \|date = 7 April 2017 \|title=Kucherov joins Ovechkin, Malkin, Kovalchuk, Bure, and Mogilny as the only Russian-born players with a 40-goal season at 23 or younger}}</ref> Kucherov finished the [[2016–17 NHL season\|2016–17 season]] with 40 goals, 45 assists and 85 points in 74 contests played. His 40 goals led the team in goals and tied [[Toronto Maple Leafs]] rookie forward [[Auston Matthews]] as the runner-up to the [[Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy\|Rocket Richard Trophy]] only behind the league-leading 45 goals by Pittsburgh Penguins captain [[Sidney Crosby]].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2017/8/23/16183970/nhl-top-25-under-25-rankings-2017-nikita-kucherov-tampa-bay-lightning \|title=NHL's best players under age 25 for 2017: Nikita Kucherov and his impressive resume rank No. 3 \|website=sbnation.com \|publisher=SB Nation \|author=Mary Clarke \|date=23 August 2017 \|access-date=10 April 2024}}</ref> On 21 June, Kucherov was named an NHL second team All-Star for the 2016–17 season.<ref>{{Cite tweet \|user=ThePHWA \|number=877721049223360512 \|date = 21 June 2017 \|title=NHL first and second All-Star teams as voted by members of PHWA}}</ref> On 12 October 2017, Kucherov also became the first player in franchise history to record a goal in five consecutive games to start a season.<ref>{{cite web\|url=~~http~~https://www.tampabay.com/sports/hockey/lightning/Lightning-journal-Nikita-Kucherov-sets-franchise-first-for-goals_161655878/\|title=Lightning journal: Nikita Kucherov sets franchise first for goals\|first=Joe\|last=Smith\|work=[[Tampa Bay Times]]\|date=14 October 2017\|access-date=22 January 2018\|archive-date=21 January 2018\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180121143241/http://www.tampabay.com/sports/hockey/lightning/Lightning-journal-Nikita-Kucherov-sets-franchise-first-for-goals_161655878\|url-status=live}}</ref> On 16 October, Kucherov recorded two more goals, which extended the streak to six games. In doing so, Kucherov joined [[Mario Lemieux]], [[Keith Tkachuk]], and [[Steve Yzerman]] as the only players in the last 30 years to score a goal in each of their first six games.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.tbo.com/blogs/lightning/deception-key-to-nikita-kucherovs-hot-start/2341270\|title=Deception key to Nikita Kucherov's hot start\|first=Joe\|last=Smith\|work=[[Tampa Bay Times]]\|date=16 October 2017\|access-date=22 January 2018\|archive-date=23 January 2018\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180123072734/http://www.tbo.com/blogs/lightning/deception-key-to-nikita-kucherovs-hot-start/2341270\|url-status=dead}}</ref> On the very next night, Kucherov extended his goal-scoring streak to seven games. In doing so, Kucherov became the sixth player in the modern era (since 1943−44) to score in each of their team's first seven games.<ref>{{cite web\|url=~~http~~https://www.tampabay.com/sports/hockey/lightning/Peter-Budaj-Lightning-lose-to-Devils-in-shootout-Nikita-Kucherov-scores_161744210/\|title=Peter Budaj, Lightning lose to Devils in shootout; Nikita Kucherov scores\|first=Joe\|last=Smith\|work=[[Tampa Bay Times]]\|date=17 October 2017\|access-date=22 January 2018\|archive-date=23 January 2018\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180123075427/http://www.tampabay.com/sports/hockey/lightning/Peter-Budaj-Lightning-lose-to-Devils-in-shootout-Nikita-Kucherov-scores_161744210\|url-status=live}}</ref> Kucherov's goal scoring streak was ended the following game on 19 October in a 2–0 win over the [[Columbus Blue Jackets]].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/tampa-bay-lightning-columbus-blue-jackets-game-recap/c-292095268\|title=Kucherov's goal scoring streak ends but Lightning win\|first=Craig\|last=Merz\|work=[[National Hockey League]]\|date=19 October 2017\|access-date=27 October 2017\|archive-date=27 October 2017\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171027232329/https://www.nhl.com/news/tampa-bay-lightning-columbus-blue-jackets-game-recap/c-292095268\|url-status=live}}</ref> On 26 October, Kucherov recorded a point in his 11th consecutive game to start the season. In doing so, Kucherov tied Martin St. Louis for the longest season-opening point streak in Lightning history.<ref>{{cite web\|url=~~http~~https://www.tampabay.com/sports/hockey/lightning/Kucherov-Stamkos-lead-Lightning-past-Red-Wings-w-video-_162045376/\|title=Kucherov, Stamkos lead Lightning past Red Wings (w/ video)\|first=Joe\|last=Smith\|work=[[Tampa Bay Times]]\|date=26 October 2017\|access-date=22 January 2018\|archive-date=23 January 2018\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180123190405/http://www.tampabay.com/sports/hockey/lightning/Kucherov-Stamkos-lead-Lightning-past-Red-Wings-w-video-_162045376\|url-status=live}}</ref> Kucherov's streak was ended the following game on 28 October with no points recorded against 4–1 loss to the [[Anaheim Ducks]].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/gamecenter/ana-vs-tbl/2017/10/28/2017020159#game=2017020159,game_state=final\|title=Stamkos, Kucherov streaks end in Lightning loss to Ducks\|first=Corey\|last=Long\|work=[[National Hockey League]]\|date=28 October 2017\|access-date=30 October 2017\|archive-date=30 October 2017\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171030150450/https://www.nhl.com/gamecenter/ana-vs-tbl/2017/10/28/2017020159#game=2017020159,game_state=final\|url-status=live}}</ref> On 10 January 2018, Kucherov was named to the [[63rd National Hockey League All-Star Game\|2018 NHL All-Star Game]], which was played at [[Amalie Arena]] in [[Tampa, Florida]].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/2018-nhl-all-star-game-rosters-unveiled/c-294840858?tid=277549086\|title=NHL reveals All-Star Game rosters\|last=NHL\|work=NHL.com\|date=10 January 2018\|access-date=10 January 2018\|archive-date=11 January 2018\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180111052749/https://www.nhl.com/news/2018-nhl-all-star-game-rosters-unveiled/c-294840858?tid=277549086\|url-status=live}}</ref> On 8 February, Kucherov recorded a three-point night in a 5–2 Lightning victory over the visiting [[Vancouver Canucks]].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/vancouver-canucks-tampa-bay-lightning-game-recap/c-295760048\|title=Kucherov, Stamkos power Lightning past Canucks\|first=Corey\|last=Long\|work=[[National Hockey League]]\|date=9 February 2018\|access-date=12 February 2018\|archive-date=13 February 2018\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180213080313/https://www.nhl.com/news/vancouver-canucks-tampa-bay-lightning-game-recap/c-295760048\|url-status=live}}</ref> Kucherov finished the [[2017–18 NHL season\|2017–18 season]] playing 80 contests and lead the team in goals, assists and points with 39 goals, 61 assists and 100 points recorded to mark his first career 100-point season. On 22 April, Kucherov recorded a goal in a 3–1 Lightning series-clinching over the [[New Jersey Devils]] in the first round of the [[2018 Stanley Cup playoffs\|2018 playoffs]]. The goal was his 10th point of the series, which established a new franchise record for most points in a single series.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/new-jersey-devils-tampa-bay-lightning-game-5-recap/c-298177264\|title=Lightning defeat Devils, advance to second round\|first=Corey\|last=Long\|work=[[National Hockey League]]\|date=21 April 2018\|access-date=22 April 2018\|archive-date=22 April 2018\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180422132649/https://www.nhl.com/news/new-jersey-devils-tampa-bay-lightning-game-5-recap/c-298177264\|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite tweet \|user=StatsCentre \|number=987807262986194946 \|date = 22 April 2018 \|title=Nikita Kucherov now has 10 points in just 5 games - a new record for most in a single playoff series by a Lightning player.}}</ref> After defeating the Devils in the opening round in five games, Kucherov and the Lightning would eventually defeat the Boston Bruins in the second round in five games before losing in the Eastern Conference Finals in seven games to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Washington Capitals, one win short from reaching the Stanley Cup Finals once more. Kucherov ended the playoffs with seven goals, 10 assists and 17 points in all 17 games played On 10 July 2018, Kucherov signed an eight-year, $76 million contract extension with the Lightning. On 15 November, Kucherov recorded his 200th assist on a goal scored by [[Brayden Point]] in a 4–3 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins. In December 2018, Kucherov set the franchise record for most assists (21) and points (30) in a single calendar month.<ref>{{cite web \|title=Nikita Kucherov named NHL's First Star of December \|url=https://www.nhl.com/lightning/news/nikita-kucherov-named-nhls-first-star-of-december/c-303468794 \|website=NHL.com \|access-date=2 January 2019 \|date=2 January 2019 \|archive-date=3 January 2019 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190103161228/https://www.nhl.com/lightning/news/nikita-kucherov-named-nhls-first-star-of-december/c-303468794 \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 2 January 2019, Kucherov was named to the [[2019 National Hockey League All-Star Game]]. This was Kucherov's third consecutive selection to the All-Star Game.<ref name="2019 NHL All-Star Game">{{cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/lightning/news/nikita-kucherov-and-steven-stamkos-selected-for-all-star-duty/c-303486050\|title=Kucherov and Stamkos selected for All-Star duty\|last=Burns\|first=Bryan\|date=2 January 2019\|work=[[Tampa Bay Lightning]]\|access-date=2 January 2019\|archive-date=3 January 2019\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190103161155/https://www.nhl.com/lightning/news/nikita-kucherov-and-steven-stamkos-selected-for-all-star-duty/c-303486050\|url-status=live}}</ref> On 18 February, Kucherov recorded a five-point night in a 5–1 Lightning win over the Columbus Blue Jackets at [[Nationwide Arena]]. Three of his five points came as assists, which gave Kucherov the Lightning single-season record for assists (70), breaking the mark of 68, by [[Brad Richards]] and Martin St. Louis.<ref>{{cite web \|title=Nikita Kucherov, Lightning continue to flirt with NHL records \|url=https://www.bardown.com/nikita-kucherov-lightning-continue-to-flirt-with-nhl-records-1.1259982 \|website=bardown.com \|access-date=18 February 2019 \|date=18 February 2019 \|archive-date=20 February 2019 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190220122917/https://www.bardown.com/nikita-kucherov-lightning-continue-to-flirt-with-nhl-records-1.1259982 \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 9 March, Kucherov set the Lightning single season record for points in a season with his 109th point.<ref>{{Cite tweet \|user=TBLightning \|number=1104597566430302208 \|date = 9 March 2019 \|title=109. Congrats, Kuch!}}</ref> The point came in a 3–2 Lightning win over the [[Detroit Red Wings]] at Amalie Arena.<ref>{{cite web \| url = https://fox17online.com/2019/03/09/kucherov-powers-lightning-past-red-wings-3-2/ \| title = Kucherov powers Lightning past Red Wings 3-2 \| publisher = Fox 17: Western Michigan \| date = 2019-03-09 \| access-date = 2019-03-11 \| archive-date = 3 April 2019 \| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190403105123/https://fox17online.com/2019/03/09/kucherov-powers-lightning-past-red-wings-3-2/ \| url-status = live }}</ref> On 14 March, Kucherov recorded his 80th assist of the season on a Brayden Point goal in a 5–4 win over the Detroit Red Wings, becoming the first player since [[Henrik Sedin]] in [[2009–10 NHL season\|2009–10]] to hit the mark.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/tampa-bay-lightning-detroit-red-wings-game-recap-305778750 \|title=Lightning score five straight, rally past Red Wings \|website=nhl.com \|publisher=National Hockey League \|author=Dave Hogg \|date=14 March 2019 \|access-date=17 April 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nhl/news/wednesday-night-hockey-nikita-kucherov-is-a-master-of-deception \|title=Wednesday Night Hockey: Nikita Kucherov is a master of deception \|website=nbcsports.com \|publisher=NBC Sports \|author=Sean Leahy \|date=20 March 2019 \|access-date=17 April 2019}}</ref> On 20 March, Kucherov recorded two power-play goals against Washington Capitals goaltender Braden Holtby to give him the most power-play points by a Lightning player in a single season (47).<ref>{{Cite tweet \|user=BBurnsNHL \|number=1108541011855360001 \|date = 21 March 2019 \|title=With two PPGs in the 2nd period, NHL power-play scoring leader Nikita Kucherov has set a Lightning franchise record for most power-play points in a season (47), passing the old mark of 46 PP pts. set by Brad Richards in 2005-06.}}</ref> Kucherov scored his 40th goal of the season for his 126th point on Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender [[Frederik Andersen]] on 5 April, setting the record for most points in an NHL season during the salary cap era (since [[2005–06 NHL season\|2005–06]]), a record previously held by [[Joe Thornton]], who recorded 96 assists in 2005–06 and 92 in [[2006–07 NHL season\|2006–07]], respectively.<ref>{{Cite web\|url=https://www.cbssports.com/nhl/news/nikita-kucherov-notches-126th-point-vs-maple-leafs-the-most-ever-in-nhls-salary-cap-era/\|title=Nikita Kucherov notches 126th point vs. Maple Leafs, the most ever in NHL's salary cap era\|website=CBSSports.com\|date=5 April 2019\|access-date=2019-04-07\|archive-date=7 April 2019\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190407003048/https://www.cbssports.com/nhl/news/nikita-kucherov-notches-126th-point-vs-maple-leafs-the-most-ever-in-nhls-salary-cap-era/\|url-status=live}}</ref> After the [[2018–19 Tampa Bay Lightning\|2018–19 season]], the Lightning won the [[Presidents' Trophy]] as the regular season champions and Kucherov had amassed 128 points (41 goals and 87 assists) in all 82 games played, surpassing Alexander Mogilny for most points in a season by a Russian-born player.<ref>{{Cite web\|url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/hockey/news/lightnings-nikita-kucherov-breaks-major-nhl-record-in-game-82/\|title=Lightning's Nikita Kucherov: Breaks major NHL record in Game 82\|website=CBSSports.com\|date=6 April 2019\|access-date=2019-04-07\|archive-date=7 April 2019\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190407003048/https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/hockey/news/lightnings-nikita-kucherov-breaks-major-nhl-record-in-game-82/\|url-status=live}}</ref> Kucherov's 87 assists also tied [[Jaromír Jágr]] for the most assists in a single NHL season by a wing.<ref>{{Cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/lightning/news/nikita-kucherov-captures-art-ross-trophy/c-306540366\|title=Kucherov captures Art Ross Trophy\|website=nhl.com\|date=7 April 2019\|access-date=2019-04-08\|archive-date=8 April 2019\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190408050841/https://www.nhl.com/lightning/news/nikita-kucherov-captures-art-ross-trophy/c-306540366\|url-status=live}}</ref> Having amassed the most points for the regular season Kucherov was awarded the [[Art Ross Trophy]].<ref name="Art Ross Trophy 2019">{{cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/kucherov-secures-2018-19-art-ross-trophy/c-306522494\|title=Kucherov wins Art Ross Trophy as NHL scoring leader\|publisher=NHL.com\|access-date=7 April 2019\|archive-date=7 April 2019\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190407171727/https://www.nhl.com/news/kucherov-secures-2018-19-art-ross-trophy/c-306522494\|url-status=live}}</ref> On 12 April, following the Lightning's game one loss in the first round of the [[2019 Stanley Cup playoffs\|2019 playoffs]] against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Kucherov was suspended one game for boarding [[Markus Nutivaara]] during the team's game two loss.<ref>{{cite web \|title=Lightning's Kucherov suspended one game for boarding Blue Jackets' Nutivaara \|url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/kucherov-suspended-one-game-boarding-blue-jackets-nutivaara/ \|website=sportsnet.ca \|access-date=17 April 2019 \|date=12 April 2019 \|archive-date=16 April 2019 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190416131356/https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/kucherov-suspended-one-game-boarding-blue-jackets-nutivaara/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> After missing game three due to the suspension, Kucherov returned to the Lightning lineup for game four where the Blue Jackets defeated the Lightning 7–3 to complete the four game sweep. On 19 June, Kucherov was awarded the [[Hart Memorial Trophy]], voted by hockey writers and the [[Ted Lindsay Award]], voted by the players, as the most valuable player at the 2019 NHL awards for 2018–19.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nhl/2019/06/19/nhl-awards-lightning-nikita-kucherov-hart-trophy-mvp/1506152001/\|title=Tampa Bay Lightning's Nikita Kucherov is voted MVP of the NHL at awards show\|last=Brehm\|first=Mike\|date=19 June 2019\|work=[[USA Today]]\|access-date=27 June 2019\|archive-date=20 June 2019\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190620222119/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nhl/2019/06/19/nhl-awards-lightning-nikita-kucherov-hart-trophy-mvp/1506152001/\|url-status=live}}</ref> On 21 December 2019, Kucherov scored his 200th goal on goaltender Braden Holtby in a 3–1 loss to the Washington Capitals. On 23 December, Kucherov recorded his 300th assist and 500th point on a goal by Brayden Point in a 6–1 victory over the [[Florida Panthers]].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/recap/_/gameId/401145613 \|title=Lightning score 3 power-play goals in 6-1 rout of Panthers \|website=espn.com \|publisher=ESPN \|agency=Associated Press \|date=23 December 2019 \|access-date=10 April 2024}}</ref> On 6 February 2020, Kucherov played his 500th NHL game in a 4–2 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.tampabay.com/sports/lightning/2020/02/07/lightnings-nikita-kucherov-celebrates-500-games-in-nhl/\|title=Lightning's Nikita Kucherov celebrates 500 games in NHL\|last=Faiello\|first=Mike\|date=7 February 2020\|work=Tampa Bay Times\|access-date=9 June 2023}}</ref> On 19 August, Kucherov recorded three assists in a Lightning first-round series-clinching win over the Columbus Blue Jackets on goals by [[Anthony Cirelli]], [[Kevin Shattenkirk]] and Brayden Point, respectively. The three assists moved Kucherov past Martin St. Louis for the most points (70) in Lightning playoff history.<ref>{{cite web \|title=NHL roundup: Lightning get revenge, send Jackets home \|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/nhl-roundup-lightning-revenge-send-063632046.html \|website=sports.yahoo.com \|access-date=20 August 2020 \|date=20 August 2020 \|archive-date=14 April 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230414231723/https://sports.yahoo.com/nhl-roundup-lightning-revenge-send-063632046.html \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 26 August, Kucherov recorded his first career four-point playoff game in a 7–1 Lightning victory over the Boston Bruins in the third game of their second-round series.<ref>{{cite web \|title=Lightning blow out Bruins in Game 3; Tampa Bay takes 2-1 series lead \|url=https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2020/08/26/lightning-blow-out-bruins-in-game-3-moment-of-reflection-tampa-2-1-series-lead/ \|website=nbcsports.com \|access-date=26 August 2020 \|date=26 August 2020 \|archive-date=2 September 2020 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200902004207/https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2020/08/26/lightning-blow-out-bruins-in-game-3-moment-of-reflection-tampa-2-1-series-lead/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> On 8 September, Kucherov recorded a goal and four assists for a five-point night in an 8–2 Lightning win over the [[New York Islanders]] in the first game of the [[Eastern Conference (NHL)\|Eastern Conference]] Final. Kucherov's five-point game established a new franchise record for points in a single playoff game. Kucherov's 4 assists set a new franchise record for most assists in a single playoff season (16).<ref>{{cite web \|title=NHL Morning Skate: Stanley Cup Playoffs Edition – Sept. 8, 2020 \|url=https://media.nhl.com/public/news/14334?sf128360139=1 \|access-date=8 August 2020 \|date=8 August 2020 \|archive-date=14 April 2023 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230414231724/https://media.nhl.com/public/news/14334?sf128360139=1 \|url-status=live }}</ref> Kucherov's goal in that game moved him past St. Louis for the most goals in Lightning playoff history (34).<ref>{{Cite tweet \|user=TBLightning \|number = 1303155517376823297 \|date = 7 September 2020 \|title=Nikita Kucherov has passed Martin St. Louis to become our all-time playoff goals leader.}}</ref> On 21 September, Kucherov recorded two assists in game 2 of the [[2020 Stanley Cup Finals]]. The two points moved Kucherov past Brad Richards for the most points in a single playoff season in franchise history.<ref>{{cite web \|title=Nikita Kucherov sets Tampa Bay Lightning's single-playoffs points record \|url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29942064/nikita-kucherov-sets-tampa-bay-lightning-single-playoffs-points-record \|website=espn.com \|access-date=24 September 2020 \|date=21 September 2020 \|archive-date=23 September 2020 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200923143431/https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/29942064/nikita-kucherov-sets-tampa-bay-lightning-single-playoffs-points-record \|url-status=live }}</ref> That same day Kucherov was named as a [[NHL All-Star team\|Second Team All-Star]] for the [[2019–20 NHL season\|2019–20 season]].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://media.nhl.com/public/news/14423\|title=NHL Announces 2019-20 First and Second All-Star Teams\|access-date=22 September 2020\|archive-date=1 October 2020\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201001164709/https://media.nhl.com/public/news/14423\|url-status=live}}</ref> Kucherov eventually won the [[Stanley Cup]] on 28 September after the Lightning defeated the [[Dallas Stars]] in six games. He led the league in points (34) and assists (27) in the [[2020 Stanley Cup playoffs\|2020 playoffs]]. Kucherov and Brayden Point also became the first teammates to have 30 playoff points (34 and 33 respectively) since Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin (31 and 37 respectively) in [[2009 Stanley Cup playoffs\|2009]]. On 23 December 2020, it was announced that Kucherov would undergo hip surgery and would miss the entirety of the [[COVID-19 pandemic\|pandemic]]-shortened [[2020–21 NHL season\|2020–21 season]].<ref>{{cite web \|title=Kucherov out for regular season for Lightning, will have hip surgery \|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/tampa-bay-lightning-nikita-kucherov-out-for-regular-season/c-319878016 \|website=NHL.com \|access-date=20 February 2021 \|date=23 December 2020 \|archive-date=4 January 2021 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210104173117/https://www.nhl.com/news/tampa-bay-lightning-nikita-kucherov-out-for-regular-season/c-319878016 \|url-status=live }}</ref> After missing all 56 regular season games, returned for the [[2021 Stanley Cup playoffs\|2021 playoffs]], playing in all 23 games, and leading the league in playoff scoring with 32 points (eight goals, 24 assists), as the Lightning repeated as Stanley Cup champions. Kucherov also led his team in playoff assists (24) and shots on goal (62).<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/kucherov-point-lead-playoffs-in-scoring/c-325603464\|title=Kucherov, Point lead playoffs in scoring for second straight season\|last=Myers\|first=Tracey\|date=8 July 2021\|publisher=NHL.com\|access-date=9 July 2021\|archive-date=8 July 2021\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210708122416/https://www.nhl.com/news/kucherov-point-lead-playoffs-in-scoring/c-325603464\|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web \|title=2020-21 Tampa Bay Lightning Roster and Statistics \|url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/TBL/2021.html \|website=Hockey-Reference.com \|access-date=23 October 2021 \|archive-date=20 October 2021 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020024212/https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/TBL/2021.html \|url-status=live }}</ref> After Game 5 of the [[2021 Stanley Cup Finals]] on 7 July 2021, in which the Lightning defeated the Montreal Canadiens to clinch the series 4–1, Kucherov appeared at the podium drunk and shirtless to answer reporters' questions, during which time he expressed his elation at the Lightning's defense of the Stanley Cup and praised the performance of the Lightning goaltender [[Andrei Vasilevskiy]]. During the conference, Kucherov also coined the term "number one bullshit" about Vasilevskiy losing the [[Vezina Trophy]] as the league's top goaltender that season to [[Vegas Golden Knights]] goaltender [[Marc-André Fleury]] and to [[Winnipeg Jets]] goaltender [[Connor Hellebuyck]] the year prior.<ref>{{cite web \|last1=Trettenero \|first1=Brady \|title=Full transcript of Nikita Kucherov's Stanley Cup press conference \|url=https://www.ginohard.com/full-transcript-of-nikita-kucherov-stanley-cup-press-conference/ \|website=Gino Hard \|access-date=23 October 2021 \|date=8 July 2021 \|archive-date=19 October 2021 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211019190519/https://www.ginohard.com/full-transcript-of-nikita-kucherov-stanley-cup-press-conference/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> At the ensuing Stanley Cup parade on 12 July, Kucherov and several Lightning players wore shirts depicting Kucherov during his interview next to his famous "number one bullshit" quote.<ref>{{cite web \|last1=Faiello \|first1=Matt \|title=Meet the Tampa guys behind those cheeky Lightning tees \|url=https://www.tampabay.com/sports/lightning/2021/07/14/meet-the-tampa-guys-behind-those-no-1-bullst-lightning-tees/ \|website=Tampa Bay Times \|access-date=29 June 2022 \|date=14 July 2021 \|archive-date=1 July 2022 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220701235020/https://www.tampabay.com/sports/lightning/2021/07/14/meet-the-tampa-guys-behind-those-no-1-bullst-lightning-tees/ \|url-status=live }}</ref> Line 53: Kucherov was named [[Captain (ice hockey) #Alternate captain\|alternate captain]] for the [[2022–23 NHL season\|2022–23 season]] after [[Ryan McDonagh]] was traded in the 2022 off-season.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.tampabay.com/sports/lightning/2022/11/14/lightning-nikita-kucherov-alternate-captain-rob-zettler-steven-stamkos/ \|title=After all these years, Nikita Kucherov gets an 'A' for effort in Tampa Bay \|website=tampabaytimes.com \|publisher=Tampa Bay Times \|author=John Romano \|date=14 November 2022 \|access-date=10 April 2024}}</ref> On 13 December 2022, Kucherov recorded his 400th assist on a goal scored by [[Erik Černák]] in a 6–2 win over the [[Seattle Kraken]].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/recap/_/gameId/401459052 \|title=Lightning score 3 goals 3:23 apart in 2nd, beat Kraken 6-2 \|website=espn.com \|publisher=ESPN \|author=AP \|date=13 December 2022 \|access-date=10 April 2024}}</ref> Kucherov finished the 2022–23 season with 30 goals, 83 assists and 113 points in all 82 games played. On 27 December 2023, Kucherov scored his 300th NHL goal on goaltender [[Sergei Bobrovsky]] in a 3–2 loss to the Florida Panthers.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/recap/_/gameId/401559758 \|title=Reinhart has 2 goals, Bobrovsky makes 27 saves, Panthers beat Lightning 3-2 \|website=espn.com \|publisher=ESPN \|author=AP \|date=27 December 2023 \|access-date=10 April 2024}}</ref> On 18 January 2024, Kucherov recorded his 500th NHL assist on a Steven Stamkos goal in a 7–3 victory over the [[Minnesota Wild]].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/recap/_/gameId/401559922 \|title=Nikita Kucherov reaches 500 assists as Lightning ease past Wild 7-3 \|website=espn.com \|publisher=ESPN \|author=AP \|date=18 January 2024 \|access-date=10 April 2024}}</ref> On 23 January, Kucherov recorded his fifth career hat-trick in a 6–3 win over the [[Philadelphia Flyers]].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/recap/_/gameId/401559961 \|title=Nikita Kucherov scores 3 times as the Tampa Bay Lightning beat the Philadelphia Flyers 6-3 \|website=espn.com \|publisher=ESPN \|author=AP \|date=23 January 2024 \|access-date=10 April 2024}}</ref> On 17 April, Kucherov recorded his 100th assist of the [[2023-24 NHL season\|2023–24 season]] on a Brayden Point goal in the game of the season in a 6–4 win against the Toronto Maple Leafs, becoming the first winger, second in the 2023–24 season (besides [[Edmonton Oilers]] forward and captain [[Connor McDavid]]) and fifth overall player in NHL history (besides Connor McDavid, [[Wayne Gretzky]], Mario Lemieux and [[Bobby Orr]]), with 100 assists in a single season. Kucherov ended the season with a career high in goals (44), assists (100), and points (144) in 81 games played. His 144 points earned him his second career Art Ross Trophy.<ref>{{cite web\|url= https://www.nhl.com/news/lightning-nikita-kucherov-can-cap-remarkable-season-with-art-ross-trophy \|title=Kucherov can complete ‘remarkable’ season with Art Ross Trophy for Lightning \|website=nhl.com \|publisher=National Hockey League \|author=Tom Gulitti \|date=17 April 2024 \|access-date=17 April 2024}}</ref> Kucherov was unanimously named to the 2023–24 NHL first [[NHL All-Star team\|All-Star team]] at right wing, becoming the first unanimous All-Star team selection since [[Jarome Iginla]] in [[2001–02 NHL season\|2002]].<ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/2023-24-nhl-first-second-all-star-teams \|title=NHL announces 2023-24 All-Star Teams \|website=NHL.com \|date=June 27, 2024 \|access-date=June 28, 2024}}</ref> ==International play== Line 290: \|- \| [[NHL All-Star team\|NHL first All-Star team]] \| [[2017–18 NHL season\|2018]], [[2018–19 NHL season\|2019]], [[2023–24 NHL season\|2024]] \| <ref>{{Cite web\|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-first-second-all-star-teams-for-2017-18/c-299153926\|title=NHL First, Second All-Star Teams for 2017-18\|website=NHL.com\|access-date=15 December 2018\|archive-date=3 July 2019\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703143557/https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-first-second-all-star-teams-for-2017-18/c-299153926\|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web \| url = https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-all-star-teams-announced-for-2018-19-season/c-307914356 \| title = NHL names 2018-19 All-Star teams \| publisher = [[National Hockey League]] \| date = 20 June 2019 \| access-date = 20 June 2019 \| archive-date = 8 November 2020 \| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20201108000340/https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-all-star-teams-announced-for-2018-19-season/c-307914356 \| url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web \|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/2023-24-nhl-first-second-all-star-teams \|title=NHL announces 2023-24 All-Star Teams \|website=NHL.com \|date=June 27, 2024 \|access-date=June 27, 2024}}</ref> \|- \| [[NHL All-Star team\|NHL second All-Star team]] \| [[2016–17 NHL season\|2017]], [[2019–20 NHL season\|2020]] \| <ref>{{Cite tweet \|user=ThePHWA \|number=877721049223360512 \|date = 21 June 2017 \|title=The NHL and Second All-Star ~~teas~~teams as voted on by members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association.}}</ref> \|- \| [[Art Ross Trophy]]