After acquiring him at last season’s trade deadline, the Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly looking to buy out the remaining year of Evgeny Kuznetsov‘s contract. As is required, the Hurricanes will reportedly place him on unconditional waivers first.
#causechaos is going to place Evgeny Kuznetsov on unconditional waivers for the purpose of a buyout and contract termination ???
per insider Artur Khairullin (@Artur_Khairul) pic.twitter.com/mn9vPsJQWx
— Benchrates (@benchrates) July 15, 2024
Hurricanes to Buy Out Kuznetsov’s Contract
The Carolina Hurricanes acquired the long time Washington Capital centre at last season’s trade deadline in exchange for a third-round draft pick in 2025. Washington retained 50% of his $7.8 million salary in the deal as well. With one year left on the deal, Carolina reportedly has decided to buy out the Russian centre. In addition, Kuznetsov will reportedly sign a four-year deal with SKA Saint-Petersburg of the KHL after the buyout is complete.
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
Kuznetsov was a pretty central piece of the Capitals for some time before coming to Carolina. Filling the role as the team’s first or second line centre typically, his playmaking skill was frequently on display with goal scorers around him like Alex Ovechkin and T.J. Oshie. But due to some unfortunate off-ice events, Kuznetsov found himself struggling in the D.C. the last few years. With constant demotions in ice time and roles on the team, Kuznetsov entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. Carolina then decided to take a shot at the former top line player.
With a decade of NHL experience, Kuznetsov put up 173 goals and 402 assists in the regular season. But he really stepped up in the 2018 playoffs to help Washington win its only Stanley Cup. He put 12 goals and 20 assists in 24 playoff games that year. Carolina was hoping he could regain some of that magic.
Moving Forward
While Kuznetsov did not return to his 2018 self for Carolina, he did put up some points and help the team. More than that, he looked like he was enjoying the game again and expressed gratitude for a new chance. But the reality is that there were a lot of questions about where he may fit on the team moving forward due to his age and continuing ability as well as his playing style fitting in Rod Brind’Amour‘s game plan. At the end of the day, if returning to Russia is best for him then this is a good move. Meanwhile, Carolina will get some cap relief that should be helpful in re-signing some of their RFAs like Jack Drury, Martin Necas and Seth Jarvis.
Main Photo Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
