The Tampa Bay Lightning's star Nikita Kucherov was treated Tuesday for an unspecified lower body injury. She will be out approximately eight to ten weeks, the team announced Wednesday.
Kucherov sustained the injury against the Washington Capitals on Oct. 16. He doubled over in pain following an innocent-looking collision and has not played since.
Kucherov could return to play for the Stanley Cup champions, who are currently defending their title twice.
The 28-year old, who is in long-term injury reserve, has only one goal and three assists in his three games this season. He was Tampa Bay’s top scorer during the Stanley Cup runs. After recovering from hip surgery, he missed the entire season of last year and was only able to return for the first round of the playoffs.
Kucherov was the MVP of the NHL in 2018-19, when he had 87 assists and 128 point.
Tampa Bay was inconsistent in the early stages of this season, both before and after Kucherov's injury. The Lightning didn't win a regulation game until Tuesday night's victory over the Penguins.
Kucherov's career record includes 678 points in 361 NHL playoff and regular-season games. Kucherov was one of three Russians who were selected for the 2022 Olympics.
This report was contributed by The Associated Press.
