Nikita Kutsherov wants to change NHL teams – revealed the reason: “It was never about…”
Tampa Bay Lightning superstar Nikita Kucherov announced to his team last week that he does not intend to sign an extension and requested to be traded to another NHL team.
Kucherov, 33, publicly explained the reasons behind his decision on Monday. According to him, the trade request is not about financial demands, but rather dissatisfaction with the way the team is managed.
– For me, it has never been about money. It’s more about poor communication and a lack of respect. Over the past four months, we have only talked twice, and eventually GM Julien BriseBois made it clear that I could leave freely on July 1, Kucherov said according to NHL.com.
Kucherov’s current contract expires at the end of this season, after which he can move to another team as a free agent. The total value of his eight-year contract is $76 million, guaranteeing him an average annual salary of $9.5 million.
Kucherov is one of the most significant players in Lightning’s franchise history. He recently topped the team’s all-time points leaderboard and has celebrated two Stanley Cup championships in Tampa Bay. Additionally, the Russian forward has been awarded the NHL’s Most Valuable Player twice.
Despite the difficult situation, Kucherov says he still feels grateful towards the team.
– I was drafted here. This is my 14th season here. I have won a couple of championships and met a lot of great people. My children have grown up here. I will be forever grateful to this organization.
Kucherov confirmed that he has also informed his teammates about his trade request.
– They heard it first from me. Those guys are my family, and that will never change.
Lightning GM BriseBois, on the other hand, has made it clear that the team does not plan to trade its star player. Despite Kucherov’s trade request, Tampa Bay wants to keep him in their ranks.
The Russian forward assures that his situation does not affect his attitude towards the team’s current goals.
– Right now, I am part of this team, and I will do everything I can to help my teammates win.
Kucherov has started this season effectively. He has tallied 18 points in 13 games with 4 goals and 14 assists. Throughout his entire NHL career, Kucherov has played 892 regular-season games and amassed an impressive 1,142 points.
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