Evgeny Kuznetsov, the 2018 Stanley Cup champion, finds himself in a state of limbo as his agent, Shumi Babaev, continues to explore potential opportunities for the 2025–26 season. Following the mutual termination of his KHL contract with SKA St. Petersburg, Kuznetsov expressed interest in returning to the NHL. However, despite free agency opening on July 1, no agreement has been reached, leaving his future unresolved more than a month later.
Negotiations Ongoing as Kuznetsov Balances NHL Hopes with KHL Alternatives Considered
Babaev has emphasized that negotiations remain ongoing, with no set timeline for securing a contract. He clarified that Kuznetsov has not established a deadline to sign with an NHL team before exploring alternatives such as a return to the KHL. While Kuznetsov’s recent NHL performance 24 points in 63 games with Washington and Carolina was underwhelming, his agent remains optimistic about the forward’s chances of securing a deal.
Evgeny Kuznetsov (NHL)During his lone season with SKA, Kuznetsov posted an impressive 37 points in 39 games, signaling he still possesses offensive talent. However, his time in Russia was marred by two concussions, raising concerns for potential NHL suitors. Babaev previously predicted a signing by early August, and reports linked teams such as the Montreal Canadiens to Kuznetsov. Despite this, the process has stalled, and uncertainty continues to surround his next move.
Speculation Grows Around KHL Return, But Kuznetsov Remains Focused on NHL
Although Kuznetsov has prioritized an NHL comeback, speculation about a KHL return persists. One rumored destination has been the Shanghai Dragons, the recently rebranded Kunlun Red Star, who will temporarily play at SKA Arena before relocating to China.
Babaev, however, downplayed this possibility, noting that while Kuznetsov would help fill the team’s massive 22,500-seat arena, talks have not progressed. The Dragons have already made notable moves, hiring NHL veteran coach Gerard Gallant and signing ex-NHLers Jake Bischoff and Gage Quinney.
Prior to declaring his NHL ambitions, Kuznetsov was also linked with a potential return to his hometown club, Traktor Chelyabinsk, as well as Ak Bars Kazan.
While the door to these opportunities remains open, Kuznetsov appears committed to pursuing another NHL chapter in his career. For now, his future remains clouded in uncertainty, with his next move hinging on whether an NHL team is willing to take a chance on the 33-year-old forward.
