Back in the 2010s, Evgeny Kuznetsov was a staple of the Capitals' roster. Washington drafted the Russian forward with the 26th overall pick in the 2010 NHL draft. After spending another three seasons in Russia, he would join the Capitals towards the end of the 2013-14 season and quickly made an impact. Over his ten and a half years in the nation's capital, he registered 171 goals and 397 assists for 575 points, with 427 hits and 388 penalty minutes.
After finishing the 2023-24 season with the Carolina Hurricanes, he was placed on waivers. He decided to return to Russia, signing a deal with SKA Saint Petersburg. However, that stint in Russia seems to be short-lived, as it has been reported that Kuznestov plans to return to the NHL for the 2025-26 season. Although it would be nice to have him return, this seems unlikely.
A Kuznestov reunion does not appear likely for the Capitals
Kuznestov rebuilt his NHL stock this past season in Russia. During the 2023-24 season, Kuznestov had his worst season to date. Between the Capitals and Hurricanes, he tallied eight goals and 16 assists for 24 points, the lowest marks since his rookie season. However, this past year in Russia, he showed he still had something left in the tank. In 39 games, he recorded 12 goals and 25 assists for 37 points. He also notched a goal and two assists in six playoff games.
While averaging nearly a point per game at the KHL is impressive, it's not enough to move the needle for the Capitals. The goal for the Caps this offseason is to become a younger team. While they were highly successful last season, they're only two years removed from being a seller at the trade deadline. They are still trying to transition from the aging core to a younger one. With a bunch of prospects coming up in the system, they're not going to want to block them with aging players.
With that goal, Kuznestov does not make much sense. Although he would solve the third-line center problem, he just turned 33 years old. It's unlikely that Kuznestov has more than five years left in the league. It makes much more sense to hope one of their prospects in Hershey breaks out than to deal with a forward on the wrong side of 30.
There is also expected to be a major bidding war for Kuznestov this offseason. According to his agent, there are at least 15 teams that are expected to show interest in his services. That does not include the KHL teams that are expected to offer him a deal. With so much interest, it's not hard to envisage a bidding war breaking out. He could land a contract that far exceeds his actual worth. A massive overpay is the last thing the Capitals want with only $9.375 in cap space.
Although a reunion with Kuznestov would be nice for fans, it's not the smart move for the organzation. The Capitals front office can not let nostalgia blind their decision, and make a move they'll likely regret.