It appears that Evgeny Kuznetsov is eager to make Montreal his next NHL home but the feeling isn’t mutual.
According to a report by Louis-André Larivière, the Montreal Canadiens have no plans to offer Kuznetsov a contract, despite the veteran forward’s availability in free agency. This effectively ends speculation that the 33-year-old Russian could be a short-term solution to the team’s lack of depth at the second-line center position.
Kuznetsov, who most recently played for the Carolina Hurricanes after a midseason trade from Washington, is looking for a fresh start after a rocky couple of years. His agent, Shumi Babaev, confirmed in a conversation with Larivière that Kuznetsov would “love to play in Montreal” and sees the Canadiens as an ideal market and hockey environment for his next chapter.
But despite that clear interest, Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes has shown little to no inclination to bring Kuznetsov aboard. The team appears committed to developing its young core — including centers like Nick Suzuki, Kirby Dach, and potentially Owen Beck— rather than using cap space on an aging, inconsistent veteran with a history of off-ice concerns.
While Kuznetsov’s talent is undeniable — he posted 83 points as recently as the 2021–22 season — his performance has dipped in recent years, and questions remain about his commitment and locker room fit.
For now, it seems the Canadiens are prioritizing their long-term rebuild over short-term veteran help. And though Kuznetsov may want to wear the CH, the organization isn’t ready to return the interest.
Unless something changes dramatically, it looks like Evgeny Kuznetsov’s Montreal hopes will remain just that hopes.
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