Nikita Kucherov Surprises Young Pittsburgh Penguins Fan with Heartwarming Gesture

Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov became a member of the 100-point club for the fifth time in his career Tuesday night, joining the illustrious club after a dominating performance against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

With one goal and an assist, Kucherov became just the 21st player in NHL history to have five 100-point seasons.

The Lightning controlled the game, 6-0, with nine minutes remaining in the third period. The Penguins ultimately got a goal, but it was meaningless.

Lightning media relations director Benjamin Pierce indicated that Kucherov is now the highest Russian-born player to have achieved three 100-point seasons.

He breaks the deadlock with countrymen Evgeni Malkin of the Penguins with eight and Alexander Ovechkin of the Capitals with seven.

Kucherov's most successful season was in 2023-24 when he earned a record 144 points, through 44 goals and 100 assists.

He has collected a ton of hardware and silverware over the years, having won the Art Ross Trophy twice in 2018-19 and 2023-24, and the Hart Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award in 2018-19. Apart from his on-ice brilliance, Kucherov closed the night with a heroic moment.

Following his throw of his stick into the stands, he spotted a young Penguins supporter in the crowd and tossed his gloves to the youngster, creating a sentimental moment in an otherwise bleak evening for the fans of Pittsburgh.

The lovely gesture reminded everyone of the human aspect of the game of hockey, one in which players, regardless of whether they win or lose, can make a truly lasting impression on the next generation of hockey fans.

After Tuesday evening's games, the Lightning are 41-25-5 for 87 points and third place in the Atlantic Division. They've posted a 5-4-1 record in their last 10 games. Meanwhile, the Penguins sit at 29-33-11, six points out of a playoff spot.