After scoring and putting on a show in an NHL vs. KHL All-Star Game in Russia on Saturday, Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin took the time to speak on former teammate Evgeny Kuznetsov and what’s next for him after terminating his NHL contract.
Kuznetsov agreed to mutual termination of his contract with the Carolina Hurricanes and cleared unconditional waivers on Thursday, walking away from $6 million in salary. Per reports, he is set to take his talents to the KHL, though that deal will not be signed “in the near future.”
Ovechkin said that he’s not sure what the future holds for Kuznetsov, who he won the Stanley Cup with in 2018, but that he knows it will be the right choice for him and his family.
“We’ll see. I can’t say waht his plans are,” Ovechkin told R Sport, per a DeepL translation. “Everyone has their own head on their shoulders. He’ll do what’s best for his family.”
Kuznetsov spent 11 years with the Capitals before being traded to Carolina at the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline. He’d requested a change of scenery following inconsistency and a rough handful of seasons in D.C., which included run-ins with off-ice issues.
Ovechkin was disappointed to see that Kuznetsov had been traded back in March, but hoped that Kuznetsov would get the clarity that he was looking for.
“It’s tough to see that happen,” Ovechkin said. “Big part of the team, great friend of mine. It’s tough, sad day. I hope he’s gonna be better, I hope he’s gonna get fresh start, I wish him luck.”
