Sources: Hart winner Kucherov, 33, requests trade from Lightning

Tampa Bay Lightning star forward Nikita Kucherov has requested a trade, sources told ESPN on Friday. Kucherov reportedly informed teammates of his decision on the team plane ahead of their game against the Nashville Predators. However, Lightning general manager Julien BriseBois responded with a statement asserting that the organization unequivocally has no intention of trading the 33-year-old winger.

Kucherov is in the final season of an eight-year, $76 million contract, with negotiations remaining far apart regarding an extension. The two-time Stanley Cup champion holds a modified no-trade clause featuring a 10-team approved list and reportedly hopes to play alongside another top NHL superstar.