There's just no stopping Nikita Kucherov.
After being the first winger in NHL history to record 100 assists and leading the league with 144 points last year, Kucherov has been spectacular again this season. In 53 games with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2024-25, he has 26 goals, 57 assists, 83 points, and a plus-13 rating.
Yet, what's more encouraging for the Lightning about Kucherov's play is that he only seems to be getting better as the season rolls on. No. 86 is currently on a seven-game point streak, where he has three goals and seven assists over that span. He also has 29 points in his last 19 contests. With numbers like these, he is simply dominating.
The only players with more points than Kucherov in the NHL right now are Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (87 points in 59 games) and Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl (86 points in 57 games). However, with how Kucherov is playing right now, he undoubtedly has a shot of passing them if he stays red-hot.
It will be fun to see how long Kucherov can maintain this dominant hot streak with the Lightning from here. This season has been an exhilarating ride for Kucherov and the team, as they've seen their star player consistently bring his A-game to the ice, night after night.
What makes Kucherov's performance even more remarkable is his ability to elevate the play of those around him. His vision, creativity, and hockey IQ make him a constant threat and a valuable asset to his teammates. With Kucherov leading the charge, the Lightning have every reason to believe they can make a deep playoff run and perhaps even contend for the Stanley Cup.
Additionally, Kucherov's leadership and experience have been instrumental in guiding younger players on the team, helping them develop and thrive in the high-stakes environment of the NHL. His presence on and off the ice has had a profound impact on the team's overall dynamics, fostering a culture of excellence and camaraderie.
As we look ahead to the remainder of the season, it will be exciting to see how Kucherov continues to push the boundaries of his performance. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, eager to witness more of his magic and marvel at his contributions to the game. The Lightning are undoubtedly fortunate to have such a phenomenal talent in their ranks, and with Kucherov at the helm, the sky's the limit for this
