Kucherov was "sent down" yesterday as a "paper move" to get the Lightning under the cap, but is back with the Lightning today. He is skating on the fourth line with Vladimir Namestnikov and Brett Connolly. He and Namestnikov were sensational during the preseason.
Kucherov was likely sent down as a "paper-move" to help get under the cap before finalizing their 23-man roster. The Lightning did the same thing with Brett Connolly last season so Kucherov should be back with the team soon and in the lineup on Thursday. Kucherov led all players with six goals in the preseason, so expect him to be back.
Kucherov, 20, was the 58th overall pick in 2011 NHL Entry Draft. The Russian winger has tore up the AHL this season recording 13 goals and 11 assists (24 points) in 17 games. He will debut on a line with Alex Kilorn and Teddy Purcell.