Kucherov Calls Out Lightning Over Stamkos-Like Ultimatum

We now know why Nikita Kucherov wants out of Tampa Bay. It’s not about the money. It’s not about his teammates. He has no real desire to leave Tampa Bay or the city. The GM insulted him during negotiations and essentially dared him to test free agency. Kucherov wasn’t at all a fan of the move and has called the Lightning and GM Julien Brisebois out. The Lightning Took Negotiations a Step Too Far Contract negotiations are often not easy. Money, term, and emotional connections are involved. Brisebois has a reputation for tossing out the emotional part.