Elliotte Friedman names surprising destination for Nikita Kucherov

The Sportsnet insider, who first revealed the Lightning star's trade request on Oct. 30, did not claim to have any inside information on Chicago's interest. Instead, he framed the idea as a natural fit that is far from certain.

The Blackhawks have been linked to Kucherov for days. David Pagnotta was the first insider to connect the sides, and several analysts have since pitched Chicago as a destination.

The logic is straightforward. Bedard is a young star center who needs an elite winger, and Kucherov remains one of the most productive offensive players in the sport.

Still, the hurdles are significant. Kucherov, 33, holds a modified no-trade clause, which means Chicago would need to appear on his list of 10 acceptable teams. Tampa Bay has also shown no public interest in moving him, and any acquiring club would have to pay a very steep price.

Timing is another problem. Kucherov is in the final year of his contract and would likely prefer a contender, while the Blackhawks have been sitting near the bottom of the standings.

A trade would almost certainly require an extension, plus a sizable package of picks and prospects from a team still building its core.

Friedman's comment captures the situation well. Every club with a young star would love to add Kucherov, but only a handful can offer a winning environment right now. Chicago will need more than a strong pitch to stand out in a crowded field.

For now, the Blackhawks remain a fascinating name to watch as the Lightning decide how to handle their superstar.

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