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'Never About the Money': Nikita Kucherov Addresses Trade Request From Lightning for First Time
Kucherov said the request followed two conversations in four months and a hard-line stance that left him free to test unrestricted free agency.
- On Monday, Tampa Bay Lightning star Nikita Kucherov clarified his trade request stemmed from "poor communication" and lack of respect rather than money, citing only two conversations with management over four months.
- General manager Julien BriseBois drew a hard line early in contract negotiations, telling Kucherov he was free to walk as an unrestricted free agent on July 1, prompting the forward's frustration.
- The Russian winger is in the final season of an eight-year deal paying $9.5 million annually, with a modified no-trade clause covering 10 approved destinations for potential trades.
- Following the trade request on Friday, BriseBois stated the Lightning have "no intention of trading" Kucherov, maintaining the organization's firm stance despite his public dissatisfaction.
- The organization previously faced scrutiny a few years ago for failing to extend former captain Steven Stamkos, who subsequently signed a four-year deal with the Nashville Predators in free agency.
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17 Articles
The Tampa Bay star says the transfer request wasn't about money.
·Helsinki, Finland
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources17
Leaning Left2Leaning Right0Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution71% Center
Bias Distribution
- 71% of the sources are Center
71% Center
L 29%
C 71%
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