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Nikita Kucherov Praised by Lightning Legend Steven Stamkos

Tampa Bay Lightning legend Steven Stamkos praised NHL superstar Nikita Kucherov, his long-time teammate with the Bolts.Though they may no longer be teammates, Stamkos still has a lot of love for Kucherov, and he spoke glowingly about him in a…

By Adam Martin · Heavy

Published: Tuesday, 3 November 2026 at 1:55 AM

Key Things to Know

Steven Stamkos praised former teammate Nikita Kucherov, highlighting his organic rise to becoming an NHL superstar.
Stamkos noted Kucherov's elite hockey IQ, perfectionist mentality, and disciplined summer training regimen as key factors in his success.
Kucherov reportedly requested a trade away from the Tampa Bay Lightning after 14 seasons with the franchise.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Former Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos spoke glowingly about his former teammate Nikita Kucherov during an interview with NHL.com. Stamkos praised Kucherov's organic rise from an unheralded second-round draft pick into one of the top players in the NHL, highlighting his elite hockey IQ, relentless summer training, and perfectionist work ethic.

The high praise arrives as Kucherov reportedly requested a trade from the Lightning after spending 14 years with the organization. Writer Adam Martin notes that Kucherov appears set to follow Stamkos out of Tampa Bay, after Stamkos spent 16 seasons with the franchise before joining the Nashville Predators in free agency.

Read the full article on Heavy

Nikita Kucherov Praised by Lightning Legend Steven Stamkos

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