Nikita Kucherov is not just the best Tampa Bay Lightning player of all time - he is the driver of the entire TBL offense, a mentor to the entire team,  and one of the most gifted offensive players in NHL history. The numbers speak for themselves: two Stanley Cups, multiple Art Ross Trophies, two-time league MVP, and a his name written over and over in our franchise record book.

Despite over a decade of incredible success, Kucherov has requested a trade from the Lightning. While we, as fans, have limited information as to how or why we got to this point, one thing is clear: management needs to do everything possible to rectify this situation.

Kucherov has consistently outplayed his contract while operating as the standard-bearer for elite offensive production in the NHL. He has earned every single dollar and every bit of respect that comes with top-tier franchise compensation.

Lightning fans have been lucky to see three Stanley Cups over the last 25 years, a president's trophy, back-to-back wins. There have been good times and bad. What we haven't seen? A single true Lightning legend retire wearing the Bolts sweater. We saw a similar situation unfold with Steven Stamkos. The face of the franchise, a true locker room leader, and the man who set the standard for taking team friendly deals to stay competitive -  walk away over contract negotiation breakdowns. And now continues to prove his elite value elsewhere. We cannot stand by and watch history repeat itself with Kucherov.

We, the dedicated fans of the Tampa Bay Lightning, call upon general manager Julien BriseBois and the entire ownership group to bridge whatever financial or organizational gap exists, treat our franchise's greatest player with the value and respect he has rightfully earned, and keep Nikita Kucherov in Tampa Bay. Whatever it takes.