The Carolina Hurricanes placed forward Evgeny Kuznetsov on unconditional waivers Wednesday for the purpose of terminating his contract. Kuznetsov, 32, had one season remaining worth $7.8 million on his current contract, with the Washington Capitals retaining half of that following the teams' deal at the NHL trade deadline. Both the Hurricanes and Capitals are now free of his cap hit for next season. "Ultimately both sides agreed this was the best course of action for both the player and the team," Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky said, per the team website. "We thank Evgeny for his time with the team and wish him and his family the best." Kuznetsov recorded seven points (two goals, five assists) in 20 games with the Hurricanes after they acquired him for a third-round pick from the Capitals on March 8. He added six points (four goals, two assists) in 10 playoff games. Kuznetsov had 17 points (six goals, 11 assists) in 43 games last season with the Capitals prior to the trade. He also missed time while in the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program. A Stanley Cup champion with Washington in 2018, Kuznetsov has 575 points (173 goals, 402 assists) in 743 career games with the Capitals and Hurricanes. Kuznetsov is reportedly returning to Russia to play with SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL. --Field Level Media
May 16, 2024; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Hurricanes center Evgeny Kuznetsov (92) looks on against the New York Rangers during the first period in game six of the second round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports