Evgeny Kuznetsov Joins Metallurg Magnitogorsk, Ending NHL Return Speculation
Russian hockey player Evgeny Kuznetsov has signed a one-year contract with Metallurg Magnitogorsk, ending speculation about his potential return to the NHL or move to his hometown team, Traktor. Kuznetsov, a 33-year-old forward, spent over a decade in the NHL, playing for the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes. He won the Stanley Cup with the Capitals in 2018. Last season, he played for SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL, scoring 37 points in 39 regular-season games. Rumors had circulated about Kuznetsov potentially returning to the KHL with Traktor or joining Metallurg Magnitogorsk. However, the director of HC Metallurg denied any interest in Kuznetsov. Kuznetsov's agent, Shumi Babaev, had previously denied the possibility of him playing in the KHL this season, instead seeking a $2.5 million deal for him to join an NHL team. Kuznetsov has now put an end to these speculations by signing with Metallurg after passing a mandatory medical exam and participating in his first training session with the team. Evgeny Kuznetsov's move to Metallurg Magnitogorsk marks a significant addition to the KHL team. His experience and skills, honed over a decade in the NHL, are expected to strengthen Metallurg's lineup. Kuznetsov's first training session with the team indicates his commitment and eagerness to contribute to their success this season.
