Could Leafs be landing spot for Evgeny Kuznetsov

"One of the most intriguing free agents left on the open market is Evgeny Kuznetsov. After spending the past season with SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL, Kuznestov has expressed interest in returning to North America. While the sweepstakes for his services seemed to be nearing an end as he has reportedly narrowed his choice down to the Carolina Hurricanes and the Washington Capitals, that doesn't mean other teams can't jump in and land the Russian forward."

"After a disappointing 2023-24 season, Kuznetsov bounced back nicely in Russia. In 39 games, he racked up 12 goals and 25 assists for 37 points. This performance helped SKA St. Petersburg finish second in the Bobrov Division and make the playoffs for the 17th straight season. Although they lost in the quarterfinals in six games, Kuznetsov managed to score a goal and provide two assists. This demonstrated to the hockey world that, even at 33 years old, Kuznetsov can still be a serviceable bottom-six forward."

"Kuznetsov has been a playmaker throughout his career. When he was on the Capitals, many of his teammates called him one of the best passers in the league. While passing and getting assists have been the primary way he produces offense, he's also able to finish a play if needed. Having a playmaker like that in the bottom six can stretch out the lines and make every line capable of scoring. He's also been good on the penalty kill."

Evgeny Kuznetsov posted 12 goals and 25 assists in 39 KHL games, helping SKA St. Petersburg finish second in the Bobrov Division and reach the playoffs. He added a goal and two assists in the quarterfinals, showing continued offensive contribution at age 33. Kuznetsov is a proven playmaker with strong passing, capable finishing, and penalty-kill effectiveness. The Toronto Maple Leafs remain interested in adding free agents while prioritizing a defenseman. Adding Kuznetsov would improve depth, but the Maple Leafs' bottom-six center positions are expected to be filled by Nicolas Roy and Scott Laughton, limiting his fit.

Read at Editor In Leaf