Nikita Kucherov’s Epochal Open Letter to the Tampa Bay Lightning, Fans, and the Entire Bolts Community
To the fantastic Tampa Bay Lightning organization, our devoted fans, and the whole Bolts community,
I write this letter to express my heartfelt gratitude for the love, devotion, and steadfast support you’ve offered me throughout the years. From the first time I laced up my skates for this franchise to every shift I’ve worked on the ice since, I’ve felt nothing but welcome, empowered, and inspired by the people that make this organization what it is—a real family.
Playing with the Tampa Bay Lightning has been more than just a professional goal come true; it has been a personal journey of development, resilience, and triumph. The city accepted me not just as a player, but as a person. Your energy remained constant throughout our championship runs and the lows of injury or defeat. You believed in me, challenged me, and encouraged me. That is something I’ll never forget.
Thank you to the coaches, staff, and front office for believing in my abilities, cultivating my skill set, and providing me with the opportunity to develop into the player I am today. Your vision, patience, and dedication to excellence served as the foundation for my progress. You trusted me with a role and provided me the freedom to excel in it.
To my former and current teammates, you’ve been like brothers to me. We’ve fought battles, laughed together, enjoyed wonderful moments, and created memories that will last a lifetime. I will always treasure the connections formed in the locker room, on the road, and during those amazing playoff nights.
To our fans, you are the heart and spirit of this squad. Every cheer at Amalie Arena, every placard in the audience, every child inspired by our path to play the game—you’ve made all the difference. Your shouts resound into the ice. You motivated me to strive more, skate faster, and never give up.
And thank you, Tampa Bay community, for providing me with a second home. You accepted me as one of your own, and I will keep that warmth with me always. Whether on or off the ice, I felt your support and pride throughout every contact.
As I look ahead, I know I’ll always proudly wear the Bolt on my chest. My story and legacy will be forever linked to this city, this team, and all of you who stood by me.
Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for being a part of my journey. Thank you for making this ride unforgettable.
I am forever grateful.
Nikita Kucherov
#GoBolts.