Nikita Kucherov just became the greatest scorer in Tampa Bay Lightning history on Saturday, and now the NHL star reportedly wants to score the remaining points of his career in a different uniform as soon as possible.

The franchise's new record-holder and reigning NHLMVP reportedly delivered an ultimatum that the Lightning refuse to accept. According to multiple reports Friday, Kucherov told teammates and the organization he will not sign another contract and wants to be traded.

The 33-year-old star has spent his entire NHL career in Tampa Bay, helped deliver consecutive Stanley Cups and passed Steven Stamkos as the franchise's all-time leading scorer just last week.

The Russian winger is in the final year of an eight-year, $76 million contract, with an average annual value of $9.5 million. He'll be an unrestricted free agent next summer, meaning Tampa Bay risks losing him without anything in return.

That deal is good for the eighth-highest-paid right winger, behind a trio of 28-year-olds: Alexander Debrincat, Mitchell Marner, and Mikko Rantanen, who represent the top three.

The Lightning posted a social media statement from General Manager Julien Brisebois saying they have zero interest in trading Kucherov as he finishes his deal.

"We are aware of the media reports regarding the future of Nikita Kucherov with the Lightning," read the message. "We unequivocally have no intention of trading Nikita."

Reports say Kucherov and agent Dan Milstein met with Brisebois before the player told teammates on a flight to Nashville; Milstein declined to comment, and the reason for the trade request remains undisclosed.

Contract negotiations remain far apart, and Kucherov's exact motivation is unclear. His contract reportedly also includes a modified no-trade clause listing 10 approved destinations, which could restrict the Lightning's options if their stance changes

Kucherov overtook Stamkos and earned recognition in Thursday's 6-4 win over Winnipeg. He has four goals and 11 assists for 15 points, ranking second on the Lightning behind Brandon Hagel's 16.

His career total is 1,139 points, with 405 goals and 734 assists. Kucherov's trophy cabinet includes the Hart Trophy (won in 2019 and again in 2026), three Art Ross scoring titles, and two Stanley Cups with Tampa Bay (2020 and 2021).

Lightning fans fear the organization will repeat history by not paying a top star after Stamkos left for Nashville because the club declined to meet his contract expectations. The timing comes as the organization kicked off the year with an 8-3 record just 12 games in.