$70 Million Stanley Cup Champion Confirmed to Be Returning to the NHL Next Season by Agent

Babayev also told 'Championat' that they're just beginning to discuss with teams, but will not consider any chance of AHL time, and Washington will not be treated any differently.

'I've already spoken with a number of clubs about Evgeny's contract in the NHL,' Babayev wrote. 'I've decided that next year, he will play in North America.'

'There's no such thing as (a team) being given priority,' he said. 'We'll be looking for a team where he's needed. That's the most important thing.'

Kuznetsov averaged nearly a point-per-game in the KHL last season

Kuznetsov skated in the KHL with SKA St. Petersburg last year, producing 37 points in 39 games despite being beset by injuries.

Kuznetsov came to SKA after voiding his NHL contract following a trying 2023-24 season, one that was marked by inconsistency and a stay in the NHLPA Player Assistance Program.

The 33-year-old was traded from the Capitals to the Carolina Hurricanes in midseason.

He was waived and sent down temporarily to the AHL's Hershey Bears before being called up by the Hurricanes, where he tallied seven points in 20 regular-season games and six more in 10 playoff games.

Kuznetsov previously spent 11 seasons with Washington, logging 568 points in 723 games and leading the team to the 2018 Stanley Cup title.

Babayev believes that Kuznetsov has more to give in the NHL, and a fresh start will assist him in reclaiming his game.