(AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Nikita Kucherov says his trade request from the Tampa Bay Lightning stems from frustration with the organization’s communication and respect, not a desire for a more lucrative contract.
The two-time Hart Trophy winner addressed his decision Monday, explaining that he has had limited contact with general manager Julien BriseBois over the past four months.
“It was never about the money to me,” Kucherov told reporters. “It was more about poor communication and respect. Over the last four months, we have only had two conversations. Julien in them made clear I’m free to walk on July 1.”
The 33-year-old forward is entering the final season of his eight-year, $76 million contract, which carries an average annual value of $9.5 million. He can become an unrestricted free agent after the season and is eligible to sign a new deal.
Lightning Have No Intention of Trading Kucherov
Kucherov’s trade request became public Friday after he informed the organization that he did not intend to re-sign.
BriseBois responded with a statement making the Lightning’s position clear, saying the team had “unequivocally no intention of trading Nikita.”
Head coach Jon Cooper also reaffirmed Kucherov’s importance to the team, saying Saturday that the forward remains committed to the group and wants to be part of the organization this season.
Kucherov echoed that message Monday, although he did not withdraw his trade request.
“For now, I’m part of the team, and I will do everything I can to help my teammates win,” he said.
He also confirmed that he personally informed his teammates about his decision before the news became public.
“They heard it from me first,” Kucherov said. “Those guys are my family, and this will never change.”
Kucherov Remains Grateful to Tampa Bay
Although his future with the Lightning is uncertain, Kucherov made clear that the organization and Tampa Bay remain important parts of his life.
The Russian forward was selected by Tampa Bay in the second round of the 2011 NHL Draft and has spent his entire 14-year career with the franchise. He has won two Stanley Cups and two Hart Trophies, along with three Art Ross Trophies as the NHL’s leading scorer.
Kucherov also became the Lightning’s all-time leading scorer in October, surpassing Steven Stamkos. He has recorded 1,142 points through 892 regular-season games with the franchise.
“Everything. I got drafted here, played for … This is my 14th year. (I won) a couple championships, and I’ve met a lot of great people,” Kucherov said. “My kids grow up here. I’m forever grateful for this organization.”
The Lightning have maintained that they want to keep their franchise star, while Kucherov remains committed to helping the team win this season. However, his comments Monday suggest that the disagreement with management remains unresolved.
