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Evgeny Kuznetsov's agent clears air on forward's rumored NHL departure
In a recent turn of events, former Washington Capitals forward Evgeny Kuznetsov is reportedly planning to leave the NHL to join the KHL league in Russia, with multiple clubs in the league vying for the veteran player's signature.
According to an earlier report today from the Russian publication Championat, Kuznetsov is reportedly planning to sign a four-year contract with SKA St. Petersburgh. However, this decision is pending the termination of the final year of his current contract with the Carolina Hurricanes, which he initially signed with the Caps.
Despite reports that the 32-year-old veteran is leaving the NHL, it's important to note that there has been no official confirmation of the situation.
Evgeny Kuznetsov's agent, Shumi Babayev, said in an interview with Championat that while there is interest from SKA and other teams, it is too early to confirm Kuznetsiv's departure from the NHL.
"Everything is possible in this life, but it is too early to talk about Evgeny Kuznetsov's return to Russia," Babayev said. "It is not even clear why this information arose, because he has a contract with Carolina for another year. But there was an appeal from SKA. They called and said that if Evgeny were to return, they were ready to talk. But the appeal was not only from SKA, but also from other teams.
"It is clear that nothing can be denied, because everything is possible. You give information that the contract with SKA will be for four years. It is clear that SKA has long contracts. I would be glad if Evgeni returns, he will strengthen the KHL, and he will be a star in the league.
"But it is too early to say that he will return to SKA or any other team. If he does not like something or is not satisfied with the option, then there will be talks with KHL clubs. But I cannot yet say when this will happen," Babayev added in a conversation with Championat correspondent Vladislav Kruglov.
Kuznetsov has one year remaining on the eight-year contract he signed with the Capitals in 2017. His deal currently carries a $7.8 million cap hit.
How long has Evgeny Kuznetsov been in the NHL?
Kuznetsov was drafted No. 26 overall by the Capitals in the 2010 NHL draft. Before that, he played for Traktor Chelyabinsk of the KHL.
He has been in the league for over a decade now, playing 11 seasons with the Capitals. He had a brief stint of 20 games with the Hurricanes last season.
Evgeny Kuznetsov played a crucial role in helping the Washington Capitals win their only championship in 2018 after beating the Vegas Golden Knights.
Kuznetsov has accumulated 575 points through 173 goals and 402 assists in 743 career NHL games.
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