Very Troubling News Regarding Nikita Kucherov

According to Erik Erlendsson of LightningInsider.com, Nikita Kucherov may need surgery and naturally would have to miss time because of it.

Hearing the initial word on Nikita Kucherov is not positive and surgery could be involved. Assuming that's accurate, I'd expect him to miss some time moving forward, should know more later today #GoBolts #TBLightning
— Lightning Insider (@Erik_Erlendsson) October 18, 2021

In Tampa Bay's Saturday night contest against the Washington Capitals, Kucherov tried to skate by Garnett Hathaway and immediately limped off the ice in clear pain. Upon first glance, it looked apparent that Kucherov could have another serious injury.

This does not look good 🥺@TBLightning's Nikita Kucherov leaves the game. pic.twitter.com/5ffpNfMyPE
— Bally Sports Sun: Lightning (@BallyLightning) October 17, 2021

Kucherov missed the entirety of the 2020-21 regular season after undergoing hip surgery. However, he was able to return for the postseason and looked like he was never out at all. In 23 games, he scored eight goals and had 32 points. He also started this season very well, as he had a goal and four points in three games.

Here's to hoping Kucherov can recover quickly, but if he truly needs surgery, the Lightning will miss him immensely.