The Washington Capitals are unlikely to offer Evgeny Kuznetsov a professional tryout (PTO) contract, despite his frequent presence in the Washington area this summer.
Kuznetsov, 33, has been skating in local beer leagues and training at MedStar Capitals Iceplex. However, according to Sammi Silber of The Hockey News, a reunion between the former Stanley Cup champion and the Capitals is not expected. Silber writes, “Ultimately, although he's been around the area, a PTO in Washington isn't a likely path for the 33-year-old”.
Kuznetsov struggled in his final seasons with Washington, posting just 17 points in 43 games in 2023-24 before entering the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program for the second time. He was subsequently waived and traded to Carolina, with the Capitals retaining part of his salary, effectively paying him to not play for them. Following this, Kuznetsov had a brief stint in the KHL with SKA St. Petersburg, which was cut short by a mutual agreement to terminate his contract, after which he expressed his desire to return to the NHL.
Silber notes that the Capitals' focus is currently on youth, with Connor McMichael expected to fill the vacant third-line center role. This shift in focus makes a tryout with the Capitals unlikely for Kuznetsov.
Even the Montreal Canadiens, a team Kuznetsov expressed interest in joining, have reportedly ruled him out. His agent, Shumi Babaev, stated in July that while Kuznetsov wanted to play in Montreal, there was no spot available for him.
Despite the unlikelihood of a Capitals tryout, another NHL team might still offer Kuznetsov a chance. However, with the Capitals and Canadiens seemingly out of the picture, his options appear limited. Other teams may be willing to take a chance on Kuznetsov.
The Capitals have been active in securing their future by signing Lynden Lakovic and Milton Gastrin to entry-level contracts. The team selected Lakovic as the 27th overall pick and Gastrin as the 37th overall pick. Lakovic is expected to spend the 2025-26 season with the Moose Jaw Warriors in the WHL, while Gastrin will play in Sweden for MoDo Hockey.
