Kucherov exits vs. Capitals after blocking shot

Tampa Bay Lightning star Nikita Kucherov was ruled out in the second period of Saturday's contest against the Washington Capitals with an undisclosed injury, the team announced.

Kucherov blocked a heavy one-timer from Capitals defenseman John Carlson and looked to be in pain while hobbling to the dressing room.

Head coach John Cooper didn't offer an update on his blue-chip winger's status following the game, according to the team.

Kucherov recorded one assist and two shots on goal through 11:47 of ice time before departing.

The 26-year-old sniper entered Saturday's action with 10 goals and a team-leading 33 points in 29 games this season.

Kucherov authored one of the best campaigns in recent memory in 2018-19, leading the NHL with 128 points to capture both the Art Ross and Hart trophies.