Evgeny Kuznetsov, formerly of the Carolina Hurricanes.

Photo credit: NHL.com

After news broke that Evgeny Kuznetsov was departing the NHL, it was rebuffed by some, but now a top insider has confirmed the shocking news.

Evgeny Kuznetsov has been a consistent force in the NHL for over a decade now, but after spending half a year with the Carolina Hurricanes, it was revealed that he is breaking his contract and heading to Europe to join SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL.

After some outlets initially refuted the report, it has now been 100% confirmed by Frank Seravalli, with good news for both the Washington Capitals and the Hurricanes.

Seravalli has confirmed Kuznetsov is leaving for Russia.

He & the Hurricanes have agreed on a mutual contract termination. Because of this, neither the Caps nor Canes have to pay him any longer.

According to the Insider, the move will free up both teams from paying Kuznetsov moving forward, giving them more cap flexibility moving forward, while also confirming that we may have seen the end of a decorated veteran in the NHL.

image

Over 743 career games, Kuznetsov tallied 173 goals and 575 points while helping the Washington Capitals to their lone Stanley Cup, and at 32-years of age, has inked a four-year deal in the KHL.

We may still see him back, but for now, it’s likely that one of the most consistent players in Capitals franchise history is done in the NHL.