Lightning’s Initial Nikita Kucherov Offer Revealed Amid Trade Request

The Tampa Bay Lightning reportedly started their contract negotiations with Nikita Kucherov below the $15 million annual offer that failed to secure an agreement. NHL insider Kevin Weekes revealed Sunday, Nov. 1, that Tampa Bay initially offered its superstar forward approximately $13 million per season before increasing the proposal to $15 million following two blockbuster NHL contracts. The revelation provides the background of Kucherov’s frustration with negotiations, which culminated in the two-time Hart Trophy winner requesting a trade Friday, Oct. 30.