The Carolina Hurricanes have put forward Evgeny Kuznetsov on unconditional waivers for the purpose of terminating his contract, the team announced Wednesday.
In doing so, Kuznetsov will be free to return to Russia, though in doing so he is abandoning the remaining $6 million he would be owed to play this season.
“Ultimately both sides agreed this was the best course of action for both the player and the team,” general manager Eric Tulsky told Hurricanes.com. “We thank Evgeny for his time with the team and wish him and his family the best.”
The 32-year-old Kuznetsov was drafted 32nd overall by the Washington Capitals and played there from 2014 until this most recent season.
In March, he was traded to Carolina for a third-round pick, one month after entering the NHL Player Assistance Program. He had two goals and seven points in 20 games with Carolina, adding four more goals and six points in 10 post-season games.
The Carolina Hurricanes made a surprising move on Monday, placing forward Evgeny Kuznetsov on waivers. Kuznetsov, who was acquired by the Hurricanes in a trade with the Washington Capitals earlier this season, has struggled to find his footing with his new team.
Kuznetsov, a talented playmaker and former Stanley Cup champion, has seen his production drop significantly since joining the Hurricanes. In 26 games with Carolina, he has recorded just 11 points, well below his usual point-per-game pace.
The decision to place Kuznetsov on waivers comes as a shock to many in the hockey world, as he was expected to be a key contributor for the Hurricanes down the stretch. However, his lackluster performance and inconsistent play have forced the team’s hand.
It remains to be seen whether Kuznetsov will be claimed off waivers by another team or sent down to the minors. Either way, this move signals that the Hurricanes are not satisfied with his play and are looking to shake things up as they make a push for the playoffs.
Kuznetsov’s future in Carolina is now uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Hurricanes are not afraid to make bold moves in pursuit of success. Only time will tell how this decision will impact the team’s postseason aspirations.