Evgeny Kuznetsov reportedly trying to get out of his NHL contract

After 11 seasons in the NHL, Evgeny Kuznetsov is reportedly returning to Russia, effectively ending his career in North America. Reports out of Russia indicate that Kuznetsov will sign a four-year contract with SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL.

According to [Championnat.com](https://www.championat.com/hockey/news-5631356-evgenij-kuznecov-vernyotsya-v-rossiyu-i-podpishet-mnogoletnij-kontrakt-so-ska.html), Kuznetsov is currently working on an agreement with the Carolina Hurricanes to terminate the final year of his NHL contract. The deal with SKA St. Petersburg will be officially announced once this termination is finalized.

Kuznetsov has had a distinguished NHL career, highlighted by winning the Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals in 2018 and being a two-time NHL All-Star. However, his time in the league has also been marked by some significant challenges. In 2019, he was suspended from international competition for four years after testing positive for cocaine and received a three-game suspension from the NHL. He also entered the league's Player Assistance program.

Last season, Kuznetsov demanded a trade from the Washington Capitals as his performance declined. He was subsequently traded to the Carolina Hurricanes, with the Capitals retaining 50 percent of his salary.

SKA St. Petersburg is one of the top teams in the KHL and will become even stronger with the addition of Kuznetsov. This move allows Kuznetsov to continue his professional hockey career closer to home and in a familiar environment.

As Kuznetsov transitions back to playing in Russia, his departure marks the end of a significant chapter in his career. His contributions to the NHL and his role in the Capitals' Stanley Cup victory will be remembered, even as he embarks on this new journey with SKA St. Petersburg.

Source: Blade of Steel
Evgeny Kuznetsov is leaving the NHL and returning home