Toronto Maple Leafs Pursue Evgeny Kuznetsov as NHL Return Approaches
The Toronto Maple Leafs are on the verge of potentially enhancing their roster with the addition of a notable talent, Evgeny Kuznetsov. As the team seeks to bolster its top-six forward group, discussions are reportedly underway to bring the Russian star back to the NHL.
Kuznetsov’s Determination to Return
According to NHL insider Daria Tuboltseva, Kuznetsov is eager to make his comeback in the NHL. He finds himself at a crossroads, awaiting the Maple Leafs’ decision on a possible contract offer. Tuboltseva noted the interest from both the Maple Leafs and the Florida Panthers, with the latter potentially eyeing Kuznetsov as a strategic replacement for captain Aleksander Barkov, who is set to miss 7-9 months following recent surgery.
“Evgeny wants to play in the NHL. Right now he’s waiting on Toronto’s decision, though Florida is also an option,” a source familiar with the situation revealed.
A Strong Addition to the Lineup
If the Maple Leafs successfully sign Kuznetsov, it would represent a significant acquisition for the franchise. The 33-year-old forward is a two-time NHL All-Star with an impressive career-high of 83 points and 27 goals in a single season. After his contract was terminated by the Carolina Hurricanes, Kuznetsov spent the previous season in the KHL, yet his desire to return to the NHL remains steadfast.
Kuznetsov’s agent, Shumi Babaev, expressed his client’s commitment to rejoining the league. He mentioned that Kuznetsov is receiving interest from at least ten teams, underscoring the forward’s value. “I worked with Evgeny in Russia. In the U.S., he had a different agent, but now I represent his interests in the NHL,” Babaev explained. “He asked for my opinion, and I’ve always said that the NHL is where he belongs.”
Kuznetsov’s KHL Performance and Future Prospects
Although Kuznetsov faced challenges last year that led him to return to Russia, he still performed admirably in the KHL, proving he remains a top player even at a reduced capacity. “Last year, he was mentally and physically exhausted and wanted to come back to Russia. But even at 60-70% of his usual level, he was still one of the top players in the KHL,” Babaev noted.
Despite the allure of offers from KHL teams, Kuznetsov’s focus is squarely on the NHL. Babaev believes there are several teams, including the Maple Leafs, where Kuznetsov could significantly contribute. “In my view, there are about ten teams where Kuznetsov could be a real asset—where there’s both room on the roster and cap space. I think we could have clarity within a couple of weeks,” he said.
Maple Leafs’ Search for a Top-Six Forward
Throughout the offseason, Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving has emphasized the need to add another top-six forward. However, as the season approaches, he has yet to finalize such an addition. Treliving remains optimistic about the possibility of making a move before the season kicks off.
“Step one right now is seeing what we have in camp,” Treliving stated on Real Kyper & Bourne. “I know everybody’s focused on that one spot, and certainly we are, but you don’t know where chemistry is going to come from. You can put it on paper, but until you get on the ice and see who fits with who, you don’t know.”
He further added, “We’re going to continue to look internally while also continuing to look outside and see if there’s an availability for somebody that can come in and help us.”
With some cap space still available, the Maple Leafs have the flexibility to make a move. Trading some forwards could also help clear additional cap space, paving the way for a potential signing of Kuznetsov or another impactful player as they prepare for the upcoming season.
