With training camp just about a month away, former Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov is still on the hunt for a contract.
The 33-year-old, who spent part of the summer getting some work in playing in the MedStar Capitals Iceplex beer league, remains an unrestricted free agent late in the summer after having terminated his KHL contract at the start of the offseason.
Per Kuznetsov's agent, Shumi Babayev, Kuznetsov is attempting an NHL comeback, and his camp is taking its time when it comes to potential offers. The door isn't closed on going back to the KHL, though he's prioritizing teams in North America first.
“I’ve already spoken with a number of clubs about Evgeny’s contract in the NHL,” Babayev wrote on Telegram. “I’ve decided that next year, he will play in North America.”
“I have big questions about how he was utilized (in the KHL). Until December, he was one of the best players, then the (struggles) began. It was mentally hard for him,” Babayev added in an interview for Legalbet, per a DeepL translation. “I think Evgeny hasn’t said his last word in the NHL. He’ll be able to prove himself better there, I think his potential in the NHL is higher.”
All that being said, why does he remain unsigned at this point in time?
For starters, there is a risk that comes with bringing on Kuznetsov. He's had his share of struggles and inconsistency over the last few seasons, as well as some off-ice issues that caused complications. That said, teams need to see if he's the right fit for their room and systems, and after two consecutive years of contract terminations, there needs to be the right commitment and deal for him.
A professional tryout or low-range deal may also be the best route for Kuznetsov, though it's unclear if he'll want to take that path after having been an All-Star at the highest level while putting up top points over the years. That, of course, might make the KHL a more appealing option.
Still, there are teams out there that could be interested in his services, including the Vancouver Canucks and Boston Bruins.
Is a return to the Capitals possible?
Evgeny Kuznetsov’s return to the Washington Capitals appears highly unlikely at this point. After being placed on waivers in March 2024, he was traded to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. Following a brief stint with SKA Saint Petersburg in the KHL, Kuznetsov terminated his contract in April 2025 and is now seeking a return to the NHL.
According to his agent, around ten teams have expressed interest, but the Capitals are not among them. Given that Washington retained 50% of his salary in the trade, it’s clear they intended to move on. While Kuznetsov is currently an unrestricted free agent, and anything can happen in professional sports, a reunion with the Capitals seems improbable under the current circumstances.
