Lightning’s Nikita Kucherov Riding Huge Point Streak

After nearly three weeks of break, the Tampa Bay Lightning are eager to get back on ice and this star forward is looking to add yet another ridiculous streak to his list of accolades.

Feb 1, 2026; Tampa Bay, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning right wing Nikita Kucherov (86) warms up on the ice prior to the 2026 Stadium Series ice hockey game against the Boston Bruins at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images | Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Nikita Kucherov enters the Tampa Bay Lightning's matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs riding the hottest stretch of hockey in the NHL. The Lightning forward has posted 40 points since January 1 to lead the league while extending his current point streak to 10 games.

Kucherov's dominance has propelled the Lightning to first place in the Atlantic Division with a 37-14-4 record and 78 points heading into the 7:30 p.m. ET contest at Amalie Arena. The 32-year-old Russian star leads the NHL in points-per-game at 1.80 while ranking third overall in scoring with 91 points.

The three-time Art Ross Trophy winner has delivered multiple four-point performances during his recent tear. Kucherov posted four points against the Buffalo Sabres and Boston Bruins while maintaining remarkable consistency throughout the calendar year.

Chasing Milestone

Kucherov sits one goal shy of his ninth career 30-goal season. The milestone would place him in elite company among Russian-born players and extend his streak of consecutive seasons reaching that mark.

His 29 goals this season combine with league-leading assist totals to keep him firmly in the Art Ross Trophy race. Kucherov's ability to produce at an elite level deep into his career showcases the sustained excellence that has defined his tenure in Tampa Bay.

The veteran winger has been held scoreless just a handful of times since early December. His nine consecutive multi-point games earlier this season tied Steven Stamkos for the longest active streak among NHL players.

Lethal Weapon

Kucherov's dual threat as both goal-scorer and playmaker makes him nearly impossible to defend. His one-timer from the left circle remains the most dangerous weapon on Tampa Bay's power play while his vision creates scoring chances throughout five-on-five play.

Nikita Kucherov is only one goal shy of his ninth 30-goal season! 💪

Watch the @MapleLeafs vs. @TBLightning TONIGHT at 7:30p ET on @NHL_On_TNT, @SportsonMax, and @Sportsnet! pic.twitter.com/z09s1S8qMn

— NHL (@NHL) February 25, 2026

The Lightning have posted a 19-1-1 record over their last 21 games heading into the Olympic break. Tampa Bay's surge up the standings coincided directly with Kucherov's offensive explosion that began when the calendar turned to 2026.

Division Battle

Toronto enters Wednesday's matchup sitting seventh in the Atlantic Division and fighting for playoff positioning. The Maple Leafs face the daunting task of slowing down hockey's hottest player while the Lightning look to extend their division lead.

Kucherov's production has elevated Tampa Bay into legitimate Stanley Cup contender status as the season enters its final stretch. His ability to control offensive possessions through elite playmaking makes him the most dangerous forward in hockey right now.

Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. ET tonight with Kucherov one goal away from another milestone and showing no signs of slowing down his historic pace.

Make sure you bookmark Breakaway On SI for the latest news, exclusive interviews, recruiting coverage, and more!