Montreal Canadiens Reportedly Seek Evgeny Kuznetsov NHL Return

The Montreal Canadiens are actively pursuing forward Evgeny Kuznetsov as part of their efforts to strengthen their roster for the upcoming NHL season. Kuznetsov, a veteran center who spent the 2024-25 season in the KHL with SKA St. Petersburg, is considering an NHL comeback, and the Canadiens are among nearly ten teams interested in signing him. His familiarity with Canadiens prospect Ivan Demidov and his proven playoff experience, including a Stanley Cup win and leading playoff scoring in 2018, make him an appealing fit for Montreal’s need for center depth and veteran leadership. The Canadiens have already made notable roster moves, acquiring defenseman Noah Dobson and forward Zachary Bolduc, and are also eyeing St. Louis Blues’ Jordan Kyrou to boost their scoring. However, Montreal faces financial challenges, being over the salary cap, which complicates contract negotiations for Kuznetsov. Overall, the Canadiens are aggressively seeking to build a competitive team around young talent while adding experienced players to enhance their playoff potential.