Report: Evgeny Kuznetsov Is Finished in the NHL

This would probably be the best thing for all involved. According to a Russian media report, and confirmed by The Hockey News, Evgeny Kuznetsov is terminating the final year of his contract with the Carolina Hurricanes, and is expected to head back to his homeland in Russia.

Per https://t.co/QgAZ3NffoH Evgeni Kuznetsov is set to sign a 4-year contract with SKA as soon as he terminates his agreement with the Hurricanes #CauseChaos #Canes
— Daria Tuboltseva (@DariaTuboltseva) July 15, 2024

Despite unconfirmed reports, chamionat.com is stating, and Capitals beat writer Sammy Silber of The Hockey News is reporting that after 11 seasons in the NHL, Kuznetsov has decided to return home, and is expected to sign a 4-year contract with SKA.

After spending time in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program after the 2024 NHL All-Star Break, Kuznetsov requested a trade from the Capitals, who granted that wish and sent the 32-year-old veteran to the Carolina Hurricanes.

He recorded seven points in 20 games for the Canes, then stepped it up further in the playoffs with six points in 10 playoff games. In 63 games overall this past regular season, he had eight goals and 16 assists for 24 points. Those were all the lowest full-season totals of his NHL career.

After being selected in the first round of the 2010 Draft by the Capitals, Kuznetsov played 11 seasons in the NHL, and recorded 173 goals and 575 points in 743 total games.

Evgeny Kuznetsov, of SKA, is finished in the NHL. Had a good run, although never an analytical darling - probably one of those model-breaking playmakers. pic.twitter.com/TsYZaOe1eu
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) July 15, 2024

As nothing has been officially announced, either by the Hurricanes or SKA, we will be keeping an eye on the reporting around Kuznetsov in the hours and days to come.