Kucherov gave Team Hughes a 1-0 lead by beating the goalie Jake Oettinger between the pads on a breakaway at 1:19 of the first period. He then assisted Pettersson with a goal that tied the score 3-3 at 4:18 of the second period.
“Two talented guys and we scored a few goals there and there was good chemistry,” Kucherov said. “It was fun.”
Kucherov heard more boos when he lined up to shoot second for Team Hughes in the shootout. He greeted the fans again, encouraging them to boo louder.
The boos turned to cheers as the goalkeeper Igor Shesterkin fended off Kucherov’s attempt with his catching glove, prompting Kucherov to salute the crowd again.
“He should have let that one in,” Kucherov said of his fellow Russian. “It would be fun. But he’s a hell of a goalie, and difficult to score against.
Although Kucherov’s fifth All-Star Game appearance didn’t end the way he would have liked, he appreciated having another chance to experience everything that comes with the event.
“Just the time with the boys, enjoying it and talking in the room with the guys and just the atmosphere,” he said. “I think the fans were amazing here. The audience was listening and I liked that. »
Kucherov will see this crowd again when the Lightning visit the Maple Leafs on April 4 and, potentially, in the playoffs. His goal will now be to help Tampa qualify.
The Lightning (27-18-5) won eight of their last nine games before their All-Star weekend break to move into third place in the Atlantic Division, one point ahead of the Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings . Tampa Bay returns to play with a four-game road trip, starting against Shesterkin and the New York Rangers on Wednesday (7 p.m. ET; MAX, TNT, TVAS).
“We had a good little stretch and we just have to keep going and stay consistent with our game plan and everyone’s play,” he said. “Our goal is to make the playoffs. That’s the most important thing.
Kucherov also looks forward to continuing his see-saw battle with MacKinnon for the NHL points lead. The Lightning will host MacKinnon and the Avalanche on February 15.
“He makes me better,” Kucherov said. “I just try to go out there, have fun and try to help my team as much as I can. It’s always fun to play against the best player in the world and try to be on the same level.
