Evgeny Kuznetsov Signs with SKA Saint Petersburg

Former Carolina Hurricanes center Evgeny Kuznetsov has signed a four-year contract with SKA Saint Petersburg of the Kontinental Hockey League, following a mutual agreement to terminate his contract with the Hurricanes. Kuznetsov left behind a $6 million salary for the final season of his seven-year, $64.2 million NHL contract. Despite his past success, including leading the Washington Capitals to a Stanley Cup in 2018, Kuznetsov has struggled with consistency and off-ice issues, including a suspension for inappropriate conduct and a ban from international play due to a positive cocaine test. He recently entered the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program before being waived by the Capitals and subsequently traded to the Hurricanes. Reports indicate that Kuznetsov’s new deal will pay him approximately $1 million annually, a significant reduction from his NHL earnings. His transition to the KHL marks a new chapter in his career.