Lightning star Nikita Kucherov says trade request stems from disrespect and lack of communication

Tampa Bay Lightning right wing Nikita Kucherov, right, waves to the crowd after a video presentation for Kucherov becoming the Lightning's all-time leading scorer during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Winnipeg Jets Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara) (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)Tampa Bay Lightning right wing Nikita Kucherov waits for a face-off in the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Colorado Avalanche, Friday, Oct. 23, 2026, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski) (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)1 / 2Jets Lightning HockeyTampa Bay Lightning right wing Nikita Kucherov, right, waves to the crowd after a video presentation for Kucherov becoming the Lightning's all-time leading scorer during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Winnipeg Jets Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara) (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)2 / 2Lightning Avalanche HockeyTampa Bay Lightning right wing Nikita Kucherov waits for a face-off in the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Colorado Avalanche, Friday, Oct. 23, 2026, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski) (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)