If there is one team that has been trying its best to solidify its chances of winning a Stanley Cup next season, it is the Montreal Canadiens. From the 2025 NHL Draft to free agency, they have been working diligently to retool all summer.
The Canadiens secured defenseman Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders at the cost of their first-round picks and Emil Heineman. They further acquired forward Zachary Bolduc from the St. Louis Blues in a trade.
But if recent reports are to be trusted, they are on a quest to acquire more forwards as the free market is becoming drier and drier. And one name that has been popping up is center Evgeny Kuznetsov.
Report Suggests Montreal Canadiens Eyeing Evgeny Kuznetsov’s Signature
According to reports by RG, the Habs have shown interest in Evgeny Kuznetsov and want the former Washington Capitals Center for their front line. Kuznetsov last played for the Capitals in the 2023-24 season, during which he had to leave due to a spate of injuries.
Kuznetsov was once part of the Capitals team that won the Stanley Cup under the captaincy of Alex Ovechkin. He was also the playoffs’ points leader that year with 32 points. As he looks to make his comeback, the Habs seem to be just the right place to make it happen.
Montreal has been trying to build its core around young star Ivan Demidov, and Kuznetsov could provide the necessary veteran presence on the second line that the franchise so desperately needs.
But if they want to bring Evgeny in, they will need to make some tough decisions on the financial front.
They are already $5.4 million over the cap, so while the fans want to see the former Capitals star sign, patience will be key, especially when it comes to setting the contract offer and bonus amounts for Kuznetsov.
The Canadiens would also have to balance their long-term ambitions with their current targets. “The Canadiens are far from done,” the RG report mentioned regarding trades.
As for Kuznetsov, other than the Habs, there have been reports of at least ten teams showing an interest in bringing him on board.
If he does make the move to Montreal, he will also get to play alongside his former SKA St. Petersburg teammate, Demidov.
Kuznetsov’s camp currently appears to be mulling the most ideal fit for his NHL return but when he does make his decision, if it goes Montreal’s way, we could very well see a pretty feisty round of games should the Canadiens make it to the playoffs this coming season.
