It’s time for another round of NHL rumours. We’re closing in on the start of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but some teams are already thinking about the off-season. A few of these teams got started clearing out salaries at the March 3 trade deadline. One of those teams was the Washington Capitals, who made a few deals. However, there may be some new talk surrounding an Evgeny Kuznetsov trade. This edition of NHL rumours talks about that.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Evgeny Kuznetsov Trade Update
Rumour: The Athletic’s Tarik El-Bashir first speculated on if the Capitals would try to move the veteran Russian forward. It’s not the first time that trade talk has surrounded Kuznetsov as Pierre LeBrun reported possible trade talks in May 2021. However, El-Bashir’s article was speculation on the future of head coach Peter Laviolette and forward Anthony Mantha.
With a playoff berth all but out of reach, it’s time to look forward. Here are a few questions that figure to frame the way #Caps GM Brian MacLellan approaches one of the most important offseasons of the Alex Ovechkin era. https://t.co/IPANaQ27VR
— Tarik El-Bashir (@Tarik_ElBashir) March 27, 2023
Kuznetsov is coming off a down offensive season and will turn 31 in May. He currently makes $7.8 million and Caps general manager Brian MacLellan cleared out a little bit of space. Kuznetsov also has a modified 10-team no-trade list.
However, Russian outlet MatchTV.ru went public saying that the veteran requested a trade each of the last two seasons. (Text of the report is in Russian). The media company cited a previous El-Bashir mailbag about his future with the team. Kuznetsov was quick to shoot down the report rumours.
Could a Evgeny Kuzentsov Trade Happen?
The Russian is only one season removed from a 78-point season in 79 games in 2021-22. His shooting percentage is at 7.5 percent this season, which is four points down from his career average.
He acknowledged that he wants to come back stronger next season. However, Kuznetsov acknowledged that it’s not up to him if he remains with the Capitals. He can provide some good offensive pop when healthy and on his game. However, the future is unknown if he’ll remain in the American capital.
Main photo by: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
