2. Nikita Kucherov, Right Wing
There was very much an argument for 2022-23 being the best season in Nikita Kucherov’s career. The goal numbers (30) were relatively down for his standards. But, his ability to pass the puck around completely shifted who he became as a skater.
With 83 assists, Kucherov showed the NHL that he was an elite passer. In fact, he was only behind Connor McDavid in that category in the entire league, while still having a solid year scoring the puck.
During the playoffs against the Maple Leafs, he had five assist in the six games. His assists were a big part to arguably being Tampa Bay’s biggest contributor.