Evgeny Kuznetsov snubs Detroit Red Wings, Eyes these two contending teams in comeback to NHL
Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
The Detroit Red Wings organization have received their answer on the potential aquisition of free agent forward Evgeny Kuznetsov moments ago.
Evgeny Kuznetsov has emerged as a top free agent available after he declared a comeback to the NHL following a one-season stint in the KHL with St. Petersburg SKA, where he posted 37 points in 39 games played.
With the Red Wings roster clearly lacking depth down the middle due to the lack of production from J.T Compher in the 3rd line center role, Kuznetsov would be an easy upgrade at zero cost, but a new contract.
But according to RG's Dario Tuboltseva, Kuznetsov has ruled out the possibility of signing in Detroit, confirmation his fate with the organization.
"According to RG, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Florida Panthers are both actively considering the possibility of signing the 33-year-old forward. The Panthers, in particular, could view him as a timely replacement for captain Aleksander Barkov, who recently underwent surgery and is expected to be out of action for 7-9 months." -
- Tuboltseva
- Tuboltseva
Kuznetsov's agent, Shumi Babev, has confirmed that over 10 teams have been in contact in hopes of acquiring his client's services, but his options are down to two main teams.
Evgeny Kuznetsov's sweepstakes down to two prominent NHL contenders
"The veteran forward is waiting on NHL options, with the Maple Leafs and Panthers both in the mix."
- Per RG sources
- Per RG sources
"The veteran center spent last season in the KHL, tallying 37 points in 39 games for SKA Saint Petersburg before mutually terminating his contract in April.
Kuznetsov's most recent NHL action came in 2023-24, split between Washington and Carolina, where he posted 24 points in 63 combined games. At his peak, Kuznetsov was a consistent top-six contributor and played a pivotal role in Washington's 2018 Stanley Cup run."
- Losada
Kuznetsov's most recent NHL action came in 2023-24, split between Washington and Carolina, where he posted 24 points in 63 combined games. At his peak, Kuznetsov was a consistent top-six contributor and played a pivotal role in Washington's 2018 Stanley Cup run."
- Losada
A solid two-way center as well as a clutch playoff performer, it'll be interesting to see where he lands, and what special team takes on the 'flying bird' celebration he does after most goals.
Previously on Red Wings Insider
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 29 | 191 ANSWERS Evgeny Kuznetsov snubs Detroit Red Wings, Eyes these two contending teams in comeback to NHL Do you think Evgeny Kuznetsov will turn one of these two teams into bigger contenders? | ||
| Yes | 75 | 39.3 % |
| No, he's not much of an impact player | 116 | 60.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
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