Nikita Kucherov of Tampa Bay Lightning wins 2024-25 Art Ross Trophy – Hockey Writer – NHL News

Last night, while most of the hockey worlds fell asleep, the NHL announced some winners. With the 2024-25 NHL regular season officially in books, the league can now distribute Stat-based trophys like Art Ross (most points) and Maurice “Rocket” Richard (most goals).

The winner of the Art Rose Trophy was Tampa Bay Lightning striker Nikita Kucherov, who won the award for the second straight season and the third in his career.

Kucherov completed the year with 37 goals and 84 assists in 78 games, leading by five points over Colorado Avalanche star Nathan Mackinnon, who finished the season with 116 points.

Kucherov joined a group of elite competitions, who have won at least three art trophys in their careers. Now, his name is forever linked to the legendary list: Wayne Gretzky (10), Gody Howe (6), Mario Lemieux (6), Phil Esposito, Phil Esposito (5), Jaromir Jagr (5), Connor McDavid, Stan Mikita, Stan Mikita (4), Bobby Hull (3), and Guy Lafleer (3).

Related: Preview and Predict Lightning’s First Round Series with Black Panthers

It is worth noting that Kucherov didn’t score until March 29. At one point, he was 11 points behind the league leader. But he was late, scoring 65 of his 78 games and recording 33 multi-point performances.

Now, Kucherov and the Lightning will turn their attention to the playoffs, starting with the first-round series against the Florida Panthers in Tampa on Tuesday, April 22.