Media Bytes: Kucherov, Ferraro’s Forecast, Goalie Talk, Lafrenière

Insider David Pagnotta recently suggested the New York Rangers could emerge as a trade suitor for Tampa Bay Lightning star winger Nikita Kucherov. Speaking on DFO Insider and Leafs Morning Take, Pagnotta speculated that Rangers ownership could push general manager Chris Drury to pursue Kucherov, who formally requested a trade and stated he will not re-sign with Tampa Bay.

Kucherov stated that his trade request stems from poor communication and respect rather than money, having spoken to Lightning general manager Julien BriseBois just twice in four months. Kucherov holds a modified no-trade clause allowing him to select 10 acceptable destinations ahead of his pending free agency on July 1.