Kucherov's Scoring Surge Propels Lightning

It's March 22nd.

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Nikita Kuturov of the Tampa Bay Lightning put on a show in Edmonton, scoring two goals

and adding two assists in a 5-to-2 win over the Oilers.

That performance pushed him to the top of the NHL scoring race with 118 points including

40 goals and 78 assists in just 64 games.

He edged out Connor McDavid, who has 116 points in 71 games after scoring in the loss.

Kuturov also nashed his first career shorthanded goal on a breakaway late in the second period,

helping seal the lead for Tampa Bay.

Team mates and coach John Cooper rave about his work ethic beyond the talent, saying he

studies opponents play strong defense and elevates everyone on the ice.

Cooper compared him to McDavid, noting how they dominate in totally different styles.

1. A speed demon, the other a thinking playmaker.

Since January 1st, Kuturov has racked up 67 points in 29 games outpacing both McDavid

and Nathan McKinnon by a wide margin.

He's had two 5-point games and 7-4 point outings this season alone.

With his current pace, the 32-year-old could soon pass Stephen Stamco's for second and

lightning history, all while keeping team success first as they push toward the playoffs.