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Evgeny Kuznetsov may be on the verge of returning to the NHL, but a reunion with the Washington Capitals — the team he helped lead to their first Stanley Cup in 2018 — seems highly unlikely.
The veteran forward, who most recently played for SKA Saint Petersburg in the KHL, is now a free agent after a mutual contract termination with the Russian club. According to his agent, Kuznetsov is open to staying in the KHL but would consider returning to North America if the right NHL offer comes along.
However, Capitals insider Sammi Silber of The Hockey News reports that Washington is not expected to pursue Kuznetsov, despite the team likely seeking depth at center this offseason. While the door remains open for Kuznetsov somewhere in the NHL, the Capitals appear hesitant to revisit the past, especially given the forward’s on- and off-ice challenges in recent seasons.
Kuznetsov, once a fan favorite in D.C., spent nearly a decade with the Capitals before a brief stint with the Carolina Hurricanes and his move back to Russia. While time can change circumstances, a return to Washington appears off the table — at least for now.
POLL:
Do you want to see Evgeny Kuznetsov return to the Capitals?
▢ Yes