Nikita Kucherov posts three assists in Lightning overtime loss to Predators

Kucherov's three-assist night fits his elite recent averages and changes nothing for fantasy managers who already roster him. Fantasy impact.

By Fantasy Roundup Staff · October 31, 2026 · Updated October 31, 2026

Nikita Kucherov posted three assists and one shot in 23:41 of ice time Saturday, October 31 as the Lightning fell 5-4 in overtime to the Predators. The three-point night came one day after the veteran winger requested a trade from Tampa Bay, informing the club he would not sign another contract next summer. The Lightning entered Saturday with an 8-3-1 record, and general manager Julien BriseBois said the team has no intention of trading Kucherov.

For fantasy managers, Saturday's line reflects the production Kucherov was already delivering before the game. His recent averages sit at 1.66 points per game, so three assists against Nashville fits the profile of a player who has been at this level for years. The off-ice news does not change his immediate roster value.

Fantasy impact

Player by player

Nikita Kucherov

Kucherov's three assists, one shot and 23:41 of ice time Saturday represent a strong night, but not one that redefines his fantasy value. His recent averages of 0.56 goals and 1.10 assists per game show a player who was already producing at an elite level. He skates 20:31 a night and leads Tampa Bay with 4:08 of power-play ice time per game on the first unit. His underlying play grades 94 out of 100 among forwards in shots, scoring chances and ice time, a measure of how sustainable his scoring output is.

The trade request announced Friday does not alter Kucherov's short-term role. He remains locked into Tampa Bay's top line and power-play unit, with three more games this week on Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday. The Lightning added four games next week, giving him volume to deliver at his usual rate. His 1.66 points per game, built from a sample of 223 games, makes him a hold at his current price across all formats.

What to do

• Hold Nikita Kucherov in all formats as a top-tier winger whose recent averages of 1.66 points per game remain intact.

• Start Kucherov with confidence in his three remaining games this week on Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday.

• Do not overreact to the trade request, as the Lightning have stated they will not move him and his ice time and power-play role remain unchanged.

Schedule this week