It’s officially over for Evgeny Kuznetsov!

Earlier this week, it had been reported that forward Evgeny Kuznetsov wanted out of the NHL and was seeking a way to part from the Carolina Hurricanes to head back home to Russia.

On Wednesday, insider Frank Seravalli confirmed that the Russian forward will be placed on unconditional waivers today for purposes of a mutual contract termination. He adds:

“Both the Hurricanes and Capitals are now free of Kuznetsov’s cap hit and contract. He is walking away from final $6 million owed in salary this season to return to Russia.”

It was confirmed by Carolina, moments later. 

This is how Kuznetsov is working out a deal to end the final year of his NHL contract with the Canes, he originally signed that deal with the Capitals — and then sign a four-year contract to join SKA.

The past seasons have been quite hard on Kuznetsov since the Capitals won the Stanley Cup in 2018, leading to off-ice issues and apparent tension with management.

This past year, Kuznetsov did get some help when he entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program after the 2024 NHL All-Star Break. He had also requested a trade, which brought him to Carolina in exchange for a third-round pick while retaining half of his salary.

In 63 games split between Washington and Carolina this past season, Kuznetsov posted eight goals and 16 assists for 24 points, and added four goals and two assists in 10 playoff games for the Hurricanes.

In total for his NHL career, Kuznetsov spent 11 years in America, recording 575 points in 743 total games. He won the Stanley Cup in 2018 and had four 70-plus point seasons.

He heads back home when we can only assume he will end his career and stay put.