The Nikita Kucherov trade saga took a Canadian turn Saturday night. Multiple reports say the Tampa Bay star, who has requested a trade, would consider a move to the Toronto Maple Leafs or Montreal Canadiens if the Lightning can land a satisfying return package.

The timing added spice in Toronto, where the Leafs beat the Vancouver Canucks 4-2 behind William Nylander, who posted a goal and an assist. After the win, Leafs players — including some of Kucherov's former Tampa Bay teammates — openly discussed the possibility, with Sportsnet reporting those ex-teammates would love to have him back on their side.

Nothing is close yet. Any deal hinges on Tampa Bay extracting a package worthy of one of the league's elite scorers, and the Lightning hold the leverage of choosing where he lands. But with Kucherov reportedly open to two Original Six destinations and a Leafs room actively lobbying, this has the makings of the NHL's defining in-season storyline.