The Carolina Hurricanes have put Evgeny Kuznetsov on waivers to end his contract.
Kuznetsov, 32, is expected to return to the KHL in Russia after spending ten seasons in the NHL. Though his career had ups and downs, he shined when he helped the Washington Capitals win the Stanley Cup. Drafted by Washington in 2010, he played most of his career there before being traded to Carolina in 2024. He scored 575 points over 743 games, with a standout moment in 2018 when he scored an overtime goal against the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 6 of the Stanley Cup second round.
During that playoff run, Kuznetsov almost won the Conn Smythe Trophy and led all players in points as Washington claimed victory . However, his performance dipped afterward. In recent years, he struggled with consistency and motivation. He was even a healthy scratch at times and faced suspension for “inappropriate behavior” in 2019.
Kuznetsov’s Challenges On and Off the Ice:
Off-ice issues also plagued him; a positive test for cocaine led to a four-year international ban in 2019. He entered the NHL’s player assistance program earlier this year to tackle personal problems. Despite these setbacks, fans remember Kuznetsov for his crucial goals and brilliant plays that earned him a place among hockey legends.
When Kuznetsov returned to Capital One Arena after being traded, Washington fans gave him a standing ovation—a testament to his impact on the team.
During the 2024 playoffs, he managed six points in ten games for Carolina but couldn’t maintain that form. His last game saw him as a healthy scratch during an elimination match—a sad end for what could have been an illustrious career.
Fans might feel mixed emotions about this news—sadness over his struggles but pride for his achievements.
Kuznetzov’s journey reminds us of both triumphs and tribulations on ice. What do you think about his career?
