Will the Washington Capitals give Evgeni Kuznetsov one last chance?
Photo credit: The Hockey Writers
It's no secret that Russian forward Evgeni Kuznetsov is one of the more prominent names in the Washington Capitals organization. After an unsuccessful run in the KHL, it appears that the Kuzy is exploring options to rejoin the NHL ranks.
In a recent report, Kuznetsov's agent disclosed his interest in potentially returning to the NHL, hinting that he still has plenty left in his game
"If the NHL offer is most preferable," agent Babaev said, "then Evgeny will return there."
Former Washington Capitals head coach Barry Trotz also chimed in on the conversation, highlighting Kuzy's overall capabilities.
«Kuznetsov has an extremely high hockey IQ. He loves to study film. He sees what others don't,» former Capitals' coach Barry Trotz said back in 2016 (from 'What's Russian for 'brilliant'? Evgeny Kuznetsov' The Washington Post, March 3, 2016).
Would a reunion make sense with the Washington Capitals
Kuznetsov, a two-time all-star, recorded 575 points (173 goals and 402 assists) in 743 games with the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes.
The 2018 Stanley Cup champion appeared briefly in SKA Saint Petersburgh's playoff run, a six-game series loss to Dynamo Moscow, but his availability was cut short due to concussion-related issues.
According to The Hockey Writers, From Kuznetsov's perspective, a reunion could be the lifeline his career needs. His brief stints with the Carolina Hurricanes and SKA Saint Petersburg showed glimpses of his old magic, but also reminded NHL front offices why his stock value plummeted. If he hopes to reignite his career-or just to go out on his own terms-returning to the team where he once thrived could be a logical step.
There's also no substitute for familiarity. In returning to the US capital, Kuznetsov would return to a city and fanbase that still very much reveres him. While only a few players remain from the championship core, the support and continuity they offer would be invaluable-something missing during his time in Carolina and Russia.
More details to follow.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 3 | 49 ANSWERS Will the Washington Capitals give Evgeni Kuznetsov one last chance? Should the Washington Capitals give Evgeni Kuznetsov another chance? | ||
| Yes | 14 | 28.6 % |
| No | 35 | 71.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
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