NHL: Tampa Bay Lightning at Edmonton Oilers - Source: Imagn — eff Marek "confirms" Leon Draisaitl, Nikita Kucherov trade swap consideration by Oilers and Bolts in 2019. (Image Source: Imagn)

Jeff Marek "confirms" Leon Draisaitl, Nikita Kucherov trade swap consideration by Oilers and Bolts in 2019

Modified Dec 18, 2024 04:32 GMT

NHL insider Jeff Marek has revealed that Leon Draisaitl and Nikita Kucherov were involved in serious trade discussions between the Edmonton Oilers and the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2019.

On his podcast, "The Sheet," he confirmed that a potential swap was considered, although it's unclear how close the teams were to finalizing the deal. Marek said:

“I’ve had this confirmed — there were conversations between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Edmonton Oilers and the two primaries changing were Nikita Kucherov for Leon Draisatil. That was the conversation. … I’m not sure how close they got.”

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Marek also noted that the Oilers were interested in acquiring Anthony Cirelli, which could have led to the deal falling through.

Speaking of Nikita Kucherov's performance that year, he collected the Hart Memorial Trophy, the Ted Lindsay Award and the Art Ross Trophy, solidifying his status as one of the best players in the league.

However, his postseason was cut short after the Columbus Blue Jackets swept the Tampa Bay Lightning before winning back-to-back Stanley Cups with the Lightning in 2020-21.

Meanwhile, Leon Draisaitl had an outstanding regular season, registering his first 100-point campaign in his career, but the Oilers didn't make to the playoffs that year.

Nikita Kucherov and Leon Draisaitl projected for a 100-point season

Both Nikita Kucherov and Leon Draisaitl have been in tremendous form this season.

Kecherov leads the Lightning in scoring with 46 points, comprising 14 goals and 32 assists in 26 games, placing him fifth among the NHL's leading scorers this season. The 31-year-old is on course for 135 points.

"It just makes the game so much easier, especially playing on his line," Tampa Bay forward Brayden Point said of Kucherov via NHL.com.

"He had six points tonight. ... just incredible. It's not hard to believe coming from 'Kuch,' but he's been rolling this season and he's a big part of our wins."

Meanwhile, Draisaitl has accumulated 47 points through 23 goals and 24 assists in 31 games, which ties him as the second-leading scorer in the league this season. The 28-year-old is on course for 124 points.

The Oilers beat the Lightning 2-1 on Dec. 10. Kucherov and Draisaitl are set to face off again on Feb. 26.