Nikita Kucherov drops the gloves after Josh Davies throws huge hit on Victor Hedman

   

Tampa Bay Lightning superstar Nikita Kucherov tried to spark his team during a preseason game against Florida, taking out Josh Davies after a hit on Victor Hedman.

The rivalry between the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning is known for being less than sunny even though both teams are in the Sunshine State. Both teams are perennial playoff contenders with the Panthers being the Stanley Cup Champions last season. It may not be as hot and heavy as the Florida heat but when both teams take the ice, sparks can fly.

Speaking of, Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov tried to give his team a bit of a spark while defending his teammate; going after Panthers forward Josh Davies after a hit on Lightning captain Victor Hedman:

You can watch the fight here:

It didn't take long for Tampa Bay Lightning player Connor Geekie to get in on the fun, absolutely smashing Davies a few moments later:

You can watch the fight here:

It was a warning by Geekie and Kucherov that no matter who you are, nobody messes with the longtime Lightning player and captain. While Hedman is no slouch, it must be a relief to know his teammates have his back no matter what. Kucherov is someone who isn't afraid to fight but is more known for being one of the league's best players consistently year in and year out.

It'll be a lesson to any player regardless of how tough they think they are, if they want to mess with any of the Lightning players, they'll have to go through Kucherov to do it.