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How Evgeny Kuznetsov's overseas move was made possible
Photo credit: NHL
The hockey world was stunned when longtime Washington Capitals forward Evgeny Kuznetsov signed with SKA St. Petersburg earlier this off-season. The financial logistics of the move were a mystery until recently, when it was revealed that Kuznetsov's teammate, Arseni Gritsyuk, took a significant pay cut to facilitate the signing.
According to James Nichols of New Jersey Hockey Now, Gritsyuk agreed to a salary reduction, leaving the equivalent of $500,000 USD on the table. This selfless act allowed SKA to have the financial flexibility needed to bring Kuznetsov onboard.
Gritsyuk explained his decision in an interview with Match.tv, saying, "It is good for the club... I hope that in a year it will come back to me."
The KHL's rule allowing contract terminations and restructures certainly played a role, but Gritsyuk's commitment to the team's success is a clear example of a 'team first' mentality. This raises an interesting question: should the NHL consider a similar system, allowing players to show their dedication to winning over personal earnings?
Source: Bladeofsteel
The real reason Evgeny Kuznetsov was able to sign overseas has been revealed
The real reason Evgeny Kuznetsov was able to sign overseas has been revealed
| POLL | ||
AOUT 11 | 50 ANSWERS How Evgeny Kuznetsov's overseas move was made possible Should the NHL allow contract restructuring to help teams sign key players? | ||
| Yes, it would benefit team dynamics | 29 | 58 % |
| No, it would complicate contracts | 8 | 16 % |
| Maybe, but with restrictions | 11 | 22 % |
| Not sure | 2 | 4 % |
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