A Russian forward from an NHL club is newsy currency this season as Evgeny Kuznetsov of the Washington Capitals appears headed toward a trade to the Carolina Hurricanes. The update came from a veteran NHL reporter, Pierre LeBrun, who covers league moves for The Athletic.
The proposed deal would see Kuznetsov move in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2025 draft. Kuznetsov, drafted 26th overall by Washington in 2010, has spent the bulk of his NHL career with the Capitals before this potential move unfolds.
On March 2, the NHL’s official site disclosed that Kuznetsov had completed participation in the league’s Assistance Program, which supports players dealing with substance use issues or psychological stress. The program is intended to provide confidential help while players work through these challenges away from the daily spotlight.
Previously, Washington placed Kuznetsov on waivers. With no takers from other NHL teams, the Capitals shifted him to a farm club arrangement, effectively moving him out of the immediate NHL roster while negotiations continued in the background.
Kuznetsov has worn the Capitals sweater since 2014, with his early professional career anchored in Russia at Traktor Chelyabinsk before joining the NHL. His current contract, running through 2025, carries an average annual value around $7.8 million. In the present season, he appeared in 43 team games, recording six goals and 11 assists, contributing in a variety of ways to Washington’s lineup.
Discussions surrounding the player’s path and performance have circulated in several quarters, including remarks from the former head coach of the Capitals’ minor-league affiliate, who referenced a recent meeting with Kuznetsov. These comments reflect ongoing reflections on Kuznetsov’s role, readiness, and fit within a franchise’s long-term planning.