TAMPA BAY – Nikita Kucherov is having a season for the ages, and on Friday, March 22, 2026, the Tampa Bay Lightning star matched a mark that stood for three decades. Kucherov recorded four points against the Edmonton Oilers, equaling Mario Lemieux’s record of 75 points in 33 games, a feat “Super Mario” accomplished during the 1995-96 NHL season.
The accomplishment is particularly noteworthy considering how long Lemieux’s record had remained untouched. For nearly 30 years, no player had been able to reach that 75-point plateau in such a short span. Kucherov, however, has been on a remarkable scoring tear, currently boasting 118 points in just 64 games this season.
The Lightning’s 5-2 victory over the Oilers wasn’t just a win; it was a showcase of Kucherov’s brilliance. He factored into four of Tampa Bay’s five goals, including a shorthanded goal that sealed the victory. The shorthanded tally came after Lilleberg checked Edmonton’s Connor McDavid, allowing Moser to spring Kucherov on a breakaway.
“I reckon it’s a credit to the whole team,” Kucherov said after the game. “The team is playing well, we’re sticking to the game plan and executing our combinations, and that’s paying off for us.”
Despite his individual success, Kucherov was quick to deflect praise, emphasizing the team’s collective effort. However, his impact was undeniable. The shorthanded goal, in particular, highlighted his ability to perform in all situations. “I like to play on the penalty kill when it’s needed,” Kucherov added. “I think I showed today that I can do it, and we’ll see.”
Kucherov’s recent performance extends beyond Friday’s game. He has recorded at least three points in five consecutive road games, falling just short of Lemieux’s NHL record of six, set during the 1992-93 season. Over his last eight games, Kucherov has amassed an impressive 22 points (8 goals, 14 assists).
The numbers don’t stop there. In 29 games played in 2026, Kucherov has 67 points, a staggering 21 points more than Connor McDavid over the same period. Against Edmonton specifically, Kucherov has accumulated 30 points in 27 career games.
Kucherov has played in 64 games this season, scoring 40 goals and adding 78 assists for a total of 118 points. His current pace puts him on track for a potentially historic season, one that could challenge some of the most prolific offensive outputs in NHL history.
This isn’t simply about matching a record; it’s about Kucherov’s sustained excellence. He consistently elevates his game year after year, and his current form is a testament to his dedication and skill. For hockey fans, witnessing Kucherov’s performance is a reminder of the artistry and excitement the sport can offer.
The Tampa Bay Lightning will need Kucherov’s continued brilliance as they push towards the playoffs. Their next game is scheduled for [insert next game date/time/opponent here – *verification needed*], and all eyes will be on Kucherov to see if he can continue his remarkable scoring streak. Fans can follow the Lightning’s progress and Kucherov’s stats on the official NHL website: https://www.nhl.com/
The question now isn’t just whether Kucherov can break Lemieux’s record for points in 33 games, but how high his final point total will climb this season. He’s already surpassed Lemieux’s overall total from the 1995-96 season, and with plenty of games remaining, the possibilities seem limitless.
Related reading
