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Agent Reveals 'View' on Evgeny Kuznetsov's NHL Situation

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Jul 9, 2025 7:39 AM ET

Former Washington Capitals winger Evgeny Kuznetsov wants to make an NHL comeback after spending last season playing in Russia's KHL.

This time, however, Kuznetsov is aiming for a short, one-year deal, with all money guaranteed. As revealed by his agent, Shumi Babaev, Kuznetsov will not sign a tryout-type deal.

According to Babaev, the former Capitals star has been in talks with several NHL teams about a return for the 2025–26 season.

Babaev told RG Media that he and Kuznetsov are only negotiating with NHL franchises, despite offers from Russia. Kuznetsov spent last season in his native country under a four-year contract, but the deal was terminated last April, making him a free agent.

Evgeny Kuznetsov is eyeing an NHL comeback after leaving SKA. His agent says 10 teams are interested and a deal could be close. No tryouts—just business.

via @DariaTuboltseva

Read more: https://t.co/lXs306WZEE
— RG (@TheRGMedia) June 30, 2025

“(Kuznetsov) asked for my opinion, and I’ve always said that the NHL is where he belongs," Babaev said. "Not because there are no offers from Russia—there are. And honestly, he’d still be one of the best players in the KHL. But right now, the focus is on returning to the NHL."

The 33-year-old is coming off a shortened stint with SKA Saint Petersburg in the KHL, where he posted 37 points in 39 games and added three more in the playoffs.

"Even at 60–70% of his usual level, he was still one of the top players in the KHL," Babaev said. "In my view, there are about ten teams where Kuznetsov could be a real asset—where there’s both room on the roster and cap space. I think we could have clarity within a couple of weeks.”

Kuznetsov last played in the NHL with the Carolina Hurricanes and the Capitals, splitting time between both franchises during the 2023–24 season. He scored 24 points in 63 regular-season games and added six points in 10 postseason outings with the Hurricanes.

Babaev made one thing clear for Kuznetsov's NHL comeback to happen.

"There’s no need to ‘test’ Kuznetsov. Everyone knows who he is and what he can do," Babaev said when asked about Kuznetsov's unwillingness to sign a tryout deal.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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