Tampa Bay Lightning news: Nikita Kucherov ranked No. 9 by NHL Network
Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov was named the 9th best player right now by the analysts over at NHL Network.
The eyes of the hockey world are focused in on the Tampa Bay Lightning this season. After missing the postseason altogether last year, expectations for the team are at an all-time high. Of course, this means the Lightning are going to have to put on one heck of a show this season.
Thankfully, the Tampa Bay Lightning have more than a few talented players in their arsenal who are more than capable of creating some excitement here in the Sunshine State, and around the hockey world as a whole.
As some of you may know by now, the analysts over at NHL Network have been putting together their list of the Top 50 Players Right Now. It should come as no surprise one particular member of the Bolts has made their way into the Top 10. This player would be none other than Nikita Kucherov.
Tampa Bay Lightning
Nikita Kucherov was a brightly shining diamond in a season full of dread and darkness. At times, it seemed as if half of the roster was on the injured list and the team was doing everything they could just to stay afloat. Kucherov’ aggressive play and quick hands were a huge contributor to the Lightning’s season.
In the 74 games Nikita Kucherov played in during the 2016-17 season, the 24-year-old winger was able to bring home 40 goals and 45 assists for a total of 85 points. Kucherov led the Lightning in goals by a rather large margin. His closest competitor was former Lightning forward Jonathan Drouin, who came in with 21 goals.
When it came to assists, Kucherov found himself a close second. The first place position in assists was bestowed upon Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman, who came in with a whopping 56 assists. Of course, when it comes to overall points, Kucherov was in the leading the pack once again.
In the off-season, Nikita Kucherov had some harsh words for some of his teammates. He felt some of them had already received their money so they decided they didn’t have to work for it anymore. Unfortunately, these accusations rang true with a couple members of the team. Despite the drama of the off-season, things seem to be back to normal at this point.
One of the many things the Tampa Bay Lightning have going for them this season is the simple fact their team is (for the most part) healthy. Lightning captain Steven Stamkos and alternate captain Ryan Callahan are both making their return to the ice this season after missing a good majority of the 2016-17 season.
Just imagine what kind of hot streak the team could find themselves on if players like Stamkos and Callahan perform at peak potential while Kucherov maintains the record he set for himself last season. If the Lightning plays their cards right, they could very well prove EA Sports right in their prediction the Bolts will win it all this season and capture their second Stanley Cup in franchise history.
Next: Steven Stamkos Looking To Get Back On His Own Level
Nikita Kucherov has always been one of the hardest working players on the team. It comes as no surprise Lightning fans find his name so close to the top of the list put together by NHL Network. As we mentioned before, all eyes are on the Tampa Bay Lightning this season. Let’s hope they start this season strong.