Maple Leafs Lose Out on Star Free Agent Target Evgeny Kuznetsov as Deal Nears Completion
Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
According to KHL sources close to Metallurg Magnitogorsk, the team is close to reaching a deal with free agent Evgeny Kuznetsov as Toronto has missed the boat.
With the NHL season slowly creeping up on us, across the pond we already have several leagues underway including the KHL, who have already seen some incredible performances thus far.
But some teams are still looking to add those pieces this season, and are taking what they can get with a thinning free agent pool, and that seems to be the case with Metallurg Magnitogorsk.
Insider Report Confirms Kuznetsov's Future Lies Outside the NHL
According to KHL sources close to the team, they are in the process of adding former Stanley Cup winner and veteran forward Evgeny Kuznetsov to the squad.
Kuznetsov will bring some much needed offense to the team, as only two of their players are in double digit scoring so far 10 games into the season.
This puts an end to Kuznetsov's NHL hopes for the time being, and with him already at 33-years old, it's going to be hard for him to find a job especially with so many teams already firmly set for the next several years.
Kuznetsov spent last season with SKA St. Petersburg and recorded 37 points in 39 games (12 goals, 25 assists).
Most well known for his time with the Washington Capitals, he's skated in 743 games with 575 points (173 goals, 402 assists) in the NHL with the Capitals, as well as one season with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Why the Maple Leafs Were Smart to Pass on Kuznetsov
We previously touched on Kuznetsov's potential with the Toronto Maple Leafs as a top-six or even middle-six option, however they clearly didn't feel the need to bring him in.
Already stuffed to the brim with players trying to find a spot, it would be hard for Kuznetsov to not only come to North America again, but practice and find his footing with the team with a week before the season.
Plus, Toronto doesn't really have the cap space to sign him, nor would they want to bring in another veteran who isn't a guarantee (see Jani Hakanpaa). His personal off-ice issues are an issue, and for as good as he can be; it was obvious no one wanted him.
There were too many factors that prevented Kuznetsov from not only finding an NHL job, but one with the Maple Leafs. However, it might also be a case of Brad Treliving hoarding his money for the Summer of 2026.
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