Retired NHL forward Pat Maroon has made a strong statement about Nikita Kucherov, calling the Tampa Bay Lightning star the most talented player he has ever seen.

The praise comes during another dominant season for Kucherov. The Russian winger, who is signed on a $76 million contract, has already crossed the 120-point mark for the fourth time in his career. He sits second (with 121 points) in NHL scoring, just behind Connor McDavid (125 points), while maintaining one of the best points-per-game rates in the league.

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Speaking on the “Missin Curfew” podcast, Maroon praised Kucherov’s unique skill set and daily work habits.

“There’s gonna be an argument here, [but] I think he’s the most talented player I’ve ever seen,” Maroon said. “With his edge work, with the way he sees the game, the way he can pick up, rim up on the wall.

“Like, he must be the best player to pick up a puck on the wall. I don’t care what anyone says. I think he distributes it the way it needs to go. He kills so much spin on the puck, the way he catches it on his heel.”

Maroon especially pointed out how Kucherov controls difficult passes and then turns them into scoring chances. He said Kucherov practices specific scenarios daily, which helps him stay sharp in games.

“I got the opportunity to skate with him when I used to come here, and he puts himself in every situation that he’s gonna play in, and he works on it every single day,” Maroon said.

“So, you know, his power play spot, he stays there. He’ll get passes, or he’ll rim 100 pucks around, or he’ll just pass them inside the net. He’ll get some other passes on the heel, one-touch it to the middle. Like, he puts himself in all the situations game-like.”

Nikita Kucherov’s consistency and impact on the Lightning’s playoff

Tampa Bay Lightning right wing Nikita Kucherov (86) at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

Kucherov’s consistency has placed him among elite company in NHL history. He now owns six 100-point seasons, including four straight campaigns above that mark. His recent form has been strong, highlighted by a standout March where he led the league in scoring.

The Lightning have also benefited from his production. Tampa Bay holds a strong 46-22-6 position in the Atlantic Division and remains a serious playoff contender. Kucherov continues to drive the offense, combining goal scoring with high-level playmaking.

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Maroon’s comments reflect what many around the league believe. Kucherov’s talent is not just natural ability but also the result of constant repetition and attention to detail.

“I think he works at it every single day,” Maroon said.

As the season moves toward the playoffs, Kucherov’s form could prove decisive. If he maintains this level, the Lightning will remain a major threat in the Stanley Cup race.