Last night, while most of the hockey world was asleep, the NHL announced a few award winners. With the 2024–25 NHL regular season officially in the books, the league can now hand out stat-based trophies like the Art Ross (most points) and the Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard (most goals).
The winner of the Art Ross Trophy is Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov, who wins the award for the second straight season and the third time in his career.
Kucherov finished the year with 37 goals and 84 assists for 121 points in 78 games — five points ahead of Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon, who ended the season with 116 points.
With this win, Kucherov joins an elite group of forwards who have captured the Art Ross Trophy at least three times in their careers. His name is now forever linked to a legendary list: Wayne Gretzky (10), Gordie Howe (6), Mario Lemieux (6), Phil Esposito (5), Jaromir Jagr (5), Connor McDavid (5), Stan Mikita (4), Bobby Hull (3), and Guy Lafleur (3).
Related: Previewing & Predicting the Lightning’s 1st Round Series vs. Panthers
What’s remarkable is that Kucherov didn’t take the scoring lead until March 29. At one point, he trailed the league leader by 11 points. But he turned it on late, scoring in 65 of his 78 games and recording 33 multi-point performances.
Now, Kucherov and the Lightning will turn their attention to the playoffs, starting with their first-round series against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday, April 22 in Tampa.
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