Lightning's Nikita Kucherov Beats Connor McDavid In Player Poll

Michael DeRosa

Apr 15, 2025

Partner

207Members·2,008Posts

Michael DeRosa

Apr 15, 2025

Partner

Nikita Kucherov & Connor McDavid (© Perry Nelson-Imagn Images)

Tampa Bay Lightning superstar Nikita Kucherov is having another remarkable season in 2024-25. In 76 games, the 31-year-old winger has 36 goals and leads the NHL with 119 points. This is after he won the Art Ross Trophy and became the first winger in NHL history to record 100 assists in a single season.

Given how incredible Kucherov has been throughout his career, his peers undoubtedly respect his game. Due to this, in the NHLPA's player poll for the 2024-25 season, Kucherov received the most votes for the question, "Who is the best playmaker?" 48.25% of the 630 players who answered picked Kucherov.

Kucherov received more votes than several big-time NHL superstars, including Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid. The Oilers superstar placed second with 20.16% of the votes, while Leon Draisaitl, Artemi Panarin, and Sidney Crosby finished behind No. 97 in that order.

Kucherov being viewed by so many players as the NHL's top playmaker is undoubtedly a massive accomplishment. However, given how incredible of a passer he is, he has certainly earned this praise. This is made apparent by the Lightning star recording at least 83 assists in each of his last three seasons.

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