What happened: Nikita Kucherov is heading toward an exit from the Tampa Bay Lightning following a formal trade request submitted last week. The longtime forward is in the final year of his contract and confirmed he will not re-sign with the club ahead of free agency.

Why it matters: A departure would alter the contending landscape in the Eastern Conference and bring an end to Kucherov's decorated tenure in Tampa Bay. Competing front offices face a March 1 deadline to structure potential trade packages for the reigning Hart Trophy winner.

What to watch: Tampa Bay continues regular-season play while front offices monitor whether management will move Kucherov ahead of the March 1 deadline.