Nikita Kucherov photo by lapresse.ca

The Russian Factor.  It has become a part of the drafting lexicon in the NHL, used to explain why a talented player isn’t drafted as soon as they should be.  This didn’t scare Steve Yzerman in 2011, though, when he used the Lightning’s 58th overall pick to select Nikita Kucherov.  The 19 year old has drawn comparisons to Marian Hossa and was touted as a 1st round talent if not for his heritage.  The risky draft pick seemed like a coup when Kucherov joined the Quebec Remparts of the QMJHL.  He was in North America, he’d get acclimated to the style of play, and he’d become a force for the Lightning in future years.  Perhaps that was wishful thinking. » Continue reading “Nikita Kucherov Hits the Trade Block, Future in North America Uncertain”