SKA HC doesn't hold back on Ex-Capitals star Evgeny Kuznetsov's 'decline' following contract termination - "It's a shame"

It's been a long time since Evgeny Kuznetsov helped lead the Washington Capitals to a Stanley Cup championship in 2017-18.

While superstar Alex Ovechkin was the leader of that team and won the Conn Smythe Trophy, Kuznetsov's playoff-leading 32 points (12 goals, 20 assists) in 24 games were just as worthy of the honor.

Unfortunately, from that point, things went downhill for the Russian centerman. Kuznetsov had a few more good years in Washington but was almost unplayable by the end, eventually dealt to Carolina. That stint as a Hurricane was short-lived, as he then headed back to Russia to play in the KHL.

After a lone season with St. Petersburg SKA, Kuznetsov and the team mutually agreed to a contract termination. To make matters worse, his former coach, Igor Larionov, was not shy when recently asked about Kuznetsov. Capitals beat reporter Sammi Silber shared his comments in an article posted on X.

"It didn't start this year, even earlier," Larionov said. "I don't know what happened and why he didn't succeed, but the decline began much earlier. I saw it about six years ago... It's a shame; he's a talented guy, could have given a lot."

Kuznetsov's eight-year, $62.4 million contract extension signed with the Capitals in 2017 expired at the 2024-25 season's end, making him an unrestricted free agent.

Evgeny Kuznetsov is keeping his options open with his hockey career moving forward

Now that Evgeny Kuznetsov is free to sign and play wherever he wants, many are wondering if a return to the NHL is a possibility.

Sammi Silber added the latest she's heard about his future in the article.

"Kuznetsov is exploring all options going into next year, including other opportunities and even a potential return to the NHL," Silber wrote Sunday.

At 33, he clearly has the desire to continue his playing career. Kuznetsov had a disastrous 2023-24 season, posting just 24 points (eight goals, 16 assists) in 63 games spent with the Capitals and Hurricanes.

If he does make a return to North America, it's safe to say that it will come on a short-term, inexpensive contract, given all of the risk surrounding his play. You can add Evgeny Kuznetsov to the UFA board as a name to keep an eye on this offseason.