Maple Leafs reportedly target controversial player on free agent market

Last week, the Carolina Hurricanes placed forward Evgeny Kuznetsov on unconditional waivers for purposes of a mutual contract termination as the veteran player was reportedly looking to head back home to play in the KHL, most notably with SKA St. Petersburg. But then, his agent Shumi Babayev revealed that his client had received interest from 15 NHL teams and could now look into the possibility of staying in the NHL.

Enter the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Pundits, including the Hockey Writers, suggest that the Maple Leafs could jump at the chance of signing Kuznetsov as the team seeks help in the secondary scoring department.

“The Toronto Maple Leafs could, and should, target forward Evgeny Kuznetsov as a reclamation project.”

Some say that the Maple Leafs need more depth up front for a longer playoff run in 2025 with some fans pointing to Kuznetsov as a solid option. 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.

Let’s not forget how Kuznetsov was once a very controversial player, especially after the Capitals won the Stanley Cup in 2018, leading to off-ice issues and apparent tension with management. But he 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 from the Capitals, which brought him to the Hurricanes in exchange for a third-round pick while retaining half of his salary.
Kuznetsov remains a great candidate for a boost on the third line in Toronto, especially if motivated by the star players there.

Reports did not indicate that the Maple Leafs were one of the 15 clubs calling about Kuznetsov though it looks like many fans and pundits have something to say about it.