Kuznetsov Down to Final Two Teams, and Leafs Match the Profile
Photo credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
According to a report from SportsDaily, former Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov is close to signing a deal as Toronto fits the bill as a destination.
As the Toronto Maple Leafs go forth with a brand new roster, and a new outlook on things in the wake of losing Mitch Marner, as it's become more about working as a collective through hard work, grit, and passion.
However, they could still use some offensive help in their middle-six and they have a few options available with only limited time, so if they were to make a move it should be sooner rather than later.
It's good news then that one free agent is apparently narrowing down his options and the Maple Leafs fit the bill perfectly.
What Kuznetsov's Agent Revealed About His Ongoing NHL Talks
According to a report from Russian sports outlet SportsDaily, former Washington Capital forward Evgeny Kuznetsov is getting close to selecting a team for the 2025-26 season per his agent Shumi Babayev; and Toronto might be a frontrunner:
No news yet... there's an expectation of signing. We've decided on the clubs. Two teams are now resolving issues with their budget.
Kuznetsov played in the KHL last season after signing a four-year deal, putting up 39 points in 37 games but decided to mutually part ways after only one season.
In 743 career NHL games, Kuznetsov has 575 points (173 goals, 402 assists) as well as 73 points in 97 playoff games; he won a Cup with the Capitals in 2017-18.
Why the Maple Leafs Could Match the Profile Mentioned
If there's any sign that the Maple Leafs could be in play for the former Capitals star, it's the fact they need to shore up some issues with their cap space first.
However, there are teams like Edmonton, Tampa Bay, and Dallas who also are close to the cap ceiling and might be able to use a veteran.
It's a team looking for a strong playoff performer with credentials, someone who can actively still contribute to their offense either as a playmaker or scorer, and defensively sound, so who better than someone who spent years with the NHL's all-time leading scorer?
Bringing him in won't actually cost that much, and while the budget issues still need to be worked out, perhaps this is leading to a David Kampf deal where his $2.4-million cap gets wiped and allows for Kuznetsov to replace him on the roster.
With time ticking, it seems like 'Kuzie' is close to making a decision, and it could be Toronto who slides in at the last second to scoop him up.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 7 | 1649 ANSWERS Kuznetsov Down to Final Two Teams, and Leafs Match the Profile Do you think the Maple Leafs should sign free agent Evgeny Kuznetsov this summer? | ||
| Yes | 900 | 54.6 % |
| No | 749 | 45.4 % |
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