The Tampa Bay Lightning's dynamic winger is making history, smashing through the 700-assist barrier and adding his 701st for good measure. Each assist sets a new franchise record, inching him closer to Steven Stamkos' all-time points record of 1,137, with the winger currently at 1,088.
With 701 assists, he's now tied with Erik Karlsson for 62nd in NHL history, eyeing Jeremy Roenick's 703 next. Among Russian-born players, he's third, trailing Evgeni Malkin (863) and Alex Ovechkin (752).
Could he eventually claim the top spot for assists among Russian players in the NHL? It's a tantalizing possibility.
At 32, he's got time on his side, being younger than both Ovechkin and Malkin. As they edge closer to retirement, Kucherov's chances to close the gap improve. Ovechkin's future remains uncertain with his contract ending this season, while Malkin may extend his career with the Penguins for a bit longer.
Kucherov is set to enter the last year of his current contract, and a long-term deal could see him playing another 6 or 7 seasons. If Malkin and Ovechkin step away, Kucherov has a clear path to climb the ranks. With Artemi Panarin next at 606 assists and Vlad Tarasenko at 374, there's little competition close behind.
Kucherov's pursuit of this milestone will be an exciting storyline to watch unfold.
Other Hockey News
The Lightning celebrated a 4-2 victory with Brayden Point making a triumphant return, scoring twice, and Charle-Edouard D’Astous contributing two assists.
In coaching news, Rob Zettler stepped in for Jon Cooper, who is away following the passing of his father. Our condolences to Coach Cooper and his family.
On the trade front, Vancouver is exploring options with Tyler Myers, who has a no-movement clause. The Canucks are reportedly asking him to waive it as they consider trading the 36-year-old defenseman.
As the playoff picture takes shape post-Olympics, the Lightning are seen as a playoff lock, while rumors swirl around potential trades involving the Flames and possibly Laine.
Stay tuned as the season progresses and these storylines continue to develop.