Nikita Kucherov tells Lightning he won't re-sign, asks for trade

Fantasy hockey: Kucherov remains a must-roster player, but his uncertain future creates risk for managers in keeper and dynasty formats. Fantasy impact.

By Fantasy Roundup Staff · October 30, 2026 · Updated October 31, 2026

Nikita Kucherov has told the Lightning he will not re-sign when his contract expires after this season and has requested a trade, according to multiple reports. The reigning MVP passed Steven Stamkos as Tampa Bay's all-time leading scorer last week, but has made it clear he prefers another path.

For fantasy managers, Kucherov remains one of the best forwards in hockey no matter where he lands. His scoring should continue at an elite pace, though the uncertainty creates risk in keeper and dynasty leagues until his destination is known.

Fantasy impact

Player by player

Nikita Kucherov

Kucherov's recent averages show why he's a fantasy cornerstone wherever he plays: 1.66 points per game, 0.56 goals, 1.10 assists and 3.2 shots over 223 games. He logs 20:31 a night with 4:08 on the power play, leading all Tampa Bay skaters in power-play ice time. His 0.53 power-play points per game anchor the first unit, and his underlying play grades 94 out of 100 among forwards for shots, scoring chances and ice time.

The trade request doesn't change his immediate value. He remains a top-tier fantasy asset with elite production across all categories. The question for keeper and dynasty managers is whether his new team will offer the same supporting cast, power-play time and offensive system that have made Tampa Bay one of the league's highest-scoring teams for years.

What to do

• Keep Kucherov in all formats and treat him as a top-five fantasy forward until his situation changes.

• In dynasty leagues, monitor trade talks closely, as his value could shift depending on his landing spot.

• Do not panic-sell Kucherov, whose elite process and ice time suggest his production will travel to any contending team.

• In redraft leagues, his immediate value is unchanged with three games left this week (Saturday, Tuesday, Thursday).

Schedule this week