Everyone’s favorite mercurial superstar, Nikita Kucherov, was named the first star of NHL for the week ending March 30th. Reunited with his running mate, Brayden Point, Kucherov cracked up 11 points (3 goals, 8 assists) in three games to nab the top honors over Roope Hintz and Connor Hellebuyck. The scoring burst vaulted him to the top of the scoring race, tied with Nathan MacKinnon at 109 points despite playing in 5 fewer games.
Both players are off of the pace they set last year in the race Art Ross race that Kucherov ended up winning, but they’re starting to separate themselves from the pack as they have a five-point lead on Leon Draisaitl, and a 16-point lead on Jack Eichel. Somewhat shockingly, Kucherov hasn’t been relying on the power play to put up the points, as only one of the 11 points he had over the last week came with the advantage.
Congratulations, Nikita Kucherov.
Lightning News
The Lightning were a little short-handed at practice today, but it was for a good reason. Nick Paul and Luke Glendening were away from the ice to celebrate some additions to their family.
#GoBolts coach Jon Cooper said these guys were missing today for good reason. “They’re having some pretty exciting family time….spring babies” Congrats to the Pauls and Glendenings!
— Benjamin Pierce (@boltsben.bsky.social) March 31, 2025 at 11:39 AM
[image or embed]
Lightning hit road with a playoff berth in reach [Tampa Bay Times]
The Lightning should return home from their road trip with a playoff spot in hand, but a successful trip could put them in a strong possession to gain home ice in at least the first round of the playoffs. In order to do so they’re going to have to find a way to play a little better away from Amalie Arena.
Lightning potential first round tickets to go on sale April 4th [Tampa Bay Lightning]
On Friday, the team will start selling single-game playoff tickets no matter if they’re Games One and Two or Games Three and Four. Set your clocks for 10:00 AM.
NHL News
Rogers set to retain NHL rights on 12-year deal [CBC]
The NHL likes what it has with Rogers and are looking forward to extending that relationship for another 12 years to the tune of $7.7 billion for Canadian broadcast rights based on reports. Rogers current deal is set to expire following the 2025-26 season.
Capitals sign Ryan Leonard [Japers’ Rink]
One of the top collegiate prospects is turning pro and heading to the NHL. The Caps signed Ryan Leonard, their 2023 first-round pick, to a three-year entry-level contract that kicks in this season. He is expected to join the team for the rest of the season, and possibly make his debut in his hometown of Boston.
Top five late-round steals of the 2021 draft [Daily FaceOff]
Even though they didn’t draft him, the Lightning have one of their players listed here. Emil Lilleberg, who was a fourth-round pick by Arizona, gets a shout-out from DFO. Dylan Duke and Niko Huuhtanen get honorable mentions.
The ‘very, very coachable’ Alex Ovechkin [The Athletic]
Some of his former coaches talk to The Athletic about coaching Alex Ovechkin.
