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Nikita Kucherov scores five-hole goal at NHL All-Star Game

By Alex Butler

Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Tampa Bay Lightning winger Nikita Kucherov had an impressive score through Braden Holtby's five-hole during the NHL All-Star Game.

He also had the first hat-trick in the 3-on-3 format in NHL All-Star Game history.

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Kucherov netted the trio of scores in the Atlantic Division's 7-4 semifinal victory against the Metropolitan Sunday at Tampa's AMALIE Arena. The Atlantic Division went on to lose 5-2 in the final to the Pacific Division.

"It was fun, had a lot of fun, enjoyed the time and being able to play in front of our fans was just great," Kucherov told NHL.com.

"[The fans] enjoyed it a lot. I loved it, everything, the atmosphere, the organization, it's a high level. Everyone is saying it's just one of the best All-Stars in the last couple years. I'm proud to be with the Lightning. It's a great city, great atmosphere and had fun."

The Atlantic squad was down 3-1 early on in the semifinal to the Metro, before Kucherov cut the lead to 3-2 after beating Henrik Lundqvist with a breakaway wrist shot. Kucherov tied the game when he made a back post score off of an assist from Jack Eichel.

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But his last score was pure class.

Kucherov skated toward the opposing net on a breakaway. He pushed the puck on his left before hiding it by putting his stick in front of it. He kept that practice up until he was right in front of the net, when he lifted up his stick. Holtby took his eye off of the puck, letting it slide right between his legs for a goal.

The net minder looked at the sky in disbelief after allowing the score.

Kucherov's teammates Steven Stamkos and Brayden Point tossed their helmets on the ice, joining the fans who tossed their hats on the frozen floor in celebration of the three goals.

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