Kucherov Tops January’s 3 Stars of the Month
Nikita Kucherov has been named the first star of January in the NHL, acknowledging his outstanding performance for the Tampa Bay Lightning. Over the course of the month, Kucherov accumulated an impressive total of 31 points, comprising nine goals and 22 assists in just 13 games. This remarkable effort helped propel the Lightning to the forefront of both the Atlantic Division and the Eastern Conference, with a record of 34 wins, 14 losses, and 4 overtime losses, totaling 72 points.
Kucherov’s Dominance in January
January was an exceptional month for Kucherov, marking his third career achievement of reaching 30 points within a single month. Previous instances included April 2022 and December 2018. His consistent performance saw him secure points in 12 of his 13 games, highlighting his offensive capabilities.
Key Highlights of Kucherov’s January
- First in the League with 22 assists.
- 10 multi-point games, leading the NHL.
- 8th career five-point game on January 3 against San Jose (1-4—5).
- Two four-point games (January 10 against Philadelphia and January 24 against Columbus).
- Multiple three-point games, showcasing his versatility and skill.
Kucherov’s effectiveness extended beyond just points. He ranked first in several categories among January’s top players:
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Even-strength points | 1st (20 points) |
| Power-play assists | 1st (9 assists) |
| Power-play points | 1st (11 points) |
| Even-strength assists | 2nd (13 assists) |
| Plus/minus rating | t-5th (+14) |
| Even-strength goals | t-9th (7 goals) |
| Total goals | t-13th (9 goals) |
Season Overview
Currently, Kucherov ranks third in the NHL for the season, boasting an impressive tally of 82 points (27 goals and 55 assists) across 48 games. He also ranks second in assists and points per game. With such stellar performances, Kucherov continues to solidify his status as a leading player in the league.
As the Lightning prepare for upcoming challenges, Kucherov’s form will be essential for their continued success and aspirations for the season. His ability to score and assist sets a high standard for both himself and his teammates.
