Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov added his name to an exclusive list on Monday.
As the Lightning were on the man-advantage against the Red Wings, Kucherov netted his sixth goal in as many games. Kucherov is just the fourth player within the last 30 years to record a goal in each of his first six games, following Keith Tkachuk, Mario Lemieux, and Steve Yzerman.
First six games. Six goals.
— NHL (@NHL) October 17, 2017
Only three have done it in the last 30 years. Time to add @86Kucherov to that list. pic.twitter.com/XbaiYjwTAs
Two periods after his first goal, he struck again. Kucherov, who was attempting any chance at a redirection, clipped just enough of the puck to direct it through the legs of Red Wings goaltender Jimmy Howard.
.@86Kucherov has his 2nd goal of the night and its 3-2 @TBLightning #NHL #GoBolts pic.twitter.com/qJtdwvXpjD
— NHL News feed (@NHLNews_PR) October 17, 2017
Even with his impressive goal-scoring streak, Kucherov trails current leader Alex Ovechkin by two goals.
Kucherov's performance of late isn't anything suprising. In 2016-17, Kucherov set a career-high in points while establishing himself on the Lightning's powerplay. Now, The 24-year-old has played a significant role in propelling Tampa Bay to a 5-1 record to begin their season. Last week, Kucherov scored the game-tying goal against the Capitals, which eventually led to Tampa Bay claiming two points.