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MichaelHapanovich
Oct 21, 2025
Updated at Oct 21, 2025, 21:53

Coming off a phenomenal 2024 season where he racked up 121 points, a +21 rating, won the  Art Ross Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award, the expectations for Kucherov were sky high heading into 2025.

It's still early in the season, but he's looked like a shell of himself thus far. Through four games, he has three points and a miserable -8 rating. Kucherov is one of the league's best and it's likely he finds his groove sooner or later.

However, Kucherov's struggles have reflected the team's start, as they hold a 1-3-2 record and sit at the bottom of the Atlantic division. 

Don't fear, Lightning fans. Since 2016, Kucherov has averaged a point or more per game every season, and as long as he stays healthy, the Lightning are sure to be a winning team. 

When Kucherov is at his best, the Lightning are too. If they want to turn it around, he's going to have to take the first step.

Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning (Kim Klement Neitzel/Imagn Images)Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning (Kim Klement Neitzel/Imagn Images)