Tampa Bay Lightning star Nikita Kucherov said his trade request is not about seeking a big payday.
"It was never about the money to me," he told reporters Monday. "It was more about poor communication and respect. Over the last four months we have only had two conversations. [General manager] Julien [BriseBois] in them made clear I'm free to walk on July 1."
That's when Kucherov can become an unrestricted free agent. He is making $9.5 million in the last year of his eight-year deal but could be looking at twice that much going forward after winning two Hart Trophies and two Stanley Cups in 13 seasons with the Lightning.
After word of Kucherov's trade request became public Friday, BriseBois put out a statement saying, "We unequivocally have no intention of trading Nikita."
Coach Jon Cooper said Saturday: "Kuch is 100% a part of this team. He wants to be a part of this team for this season, and he is committed to be with the group that loves him and the group he loves."
A clearly subdued Kucherov echoed that sentiment Monday.
"For now, I'm part of the team, and I will do everything I can to help my teammates win," he said.
He added that Tampa, Florida, has become his home and that he has raised his kids there. He said he's "forever grateful to this organization."
But he did not back off his trade request.
ESPN's Greg Wyshynski contributed to this report.