Maple Leafs Encouraged to Sign Unexpected Free Agent
The Toronto Maple Leafs, with limited options left in the free-agent market, have a surprising opportunity to bolster their offense. Jesse Courville-Lynch from The Hockey Writers suggests the Maple Leafs should sign newly available free agent Evgeny Kuznetsov, following his contract termination with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Courville-Lynch notes that while Kuznetsov was expected to join the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) in Russia, recent reports suggest he may return to the NHL this season. He argues that signing Kuznetsov would allow the Maple Leafs to experiment with their lineup and would be financially feasible, likely requiring only a one-season deal worth around $1 million. Courville-Lynch believes the Maple Leafs should act quickly to secure Kuznetsov, who could be the strategic addition needed for a successful playoff run in 2024-25.
Evgeny Kuznetsov’s Contract Situation
Kuznetsov had a difficult 2023-24 season, joining the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program and requesting a trade from the Washington Capitals. He was traded to the Carolina Hurricanes before the 2024 trade deadline. Post-season, Kuznetsov reached an agreement to terminate his contract, initially reported by Russian outlet Championat. Though Championat claimed Kuznetsov signed a four-year deal with SKA Saint Petersburg in the KHL, his agent Shumi Babayev clarified that Kuznetsov had not signed with SKA and was still considering his options, including a return to the NHL.
Potential NHL Return
In an interview with RB Sport, Babayev revealed that 15 NHL teams showed interest in Kuznetsov after his contract termination. Babayev mentioned Kuznetsov’s desire to play and enjoy hockey, indicating that Kuznetsov is still in good shape and eager to continue his career. This leaves the door open for the Maple Leafs or another NHL team to convince him to stay in the league.
With 11 NHL seasons and 575 points in 743 games, Kuznetsov has an impressive resume. He was a key player in the Capitals’ 2018 Stanley Cup victory, scoring 32 points in the playoffs. Signing Kuznetsov could provide the Maple Leafs with the offensive depth and experience needed to make a deeper playoff run.
