NHL Rumors: Capitals "Exploring Trade Options" for Evgeny Kuznetsov

The Washington Capitals are reportedly in active trade discussions concerning center Evgeny Kuznetsov, as indicated by NHL insiders Pierre LeBrun and Rob Ellis from NHL Trade Rumor.com.

Kuznetsov, who has been a key contributor to the Capitals in the past, has recently faced a noticeable drop in performance, sparking concerns about his current trade market value.

Evgeny Kuznetsov is a cheat code in the shootout 🚨 pic.twitter.com/4lB8zZyT2w

— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) December 24, 2023

The challenge in trading Kuznetsov lies not only in his performance dip but also in his substantial contract, which carries a significant cap hit of $7.8 million through the 2024-25 season.

These factors have complicated the Capitals' efforts to find a suitable trade partner willing to take on his contract while providing value in return.

LeBrun and Ellis have suggested that the Capitals might have a better opportunity to trade Kuznetsov during the 2024 NHL draft when teams typically have more flexibility in managing their salary cap.

Evgeny Kuznetsov with one of the slowest shootout goals ever pic.twitter.com/qZ2TZsyagB

— Brady Trettenero (@BradyTrett) March 26, 2022

However, the trade deadline approaching adds a sense of urgency to the situation as the Capitals strive to balance their roster needs and financial constraints in the NHL.

All eyes will be on the Capitals to see if they can secure a trade for Kuznetsov or if they will have to navigate another season with his substantial contract on their books. Photo Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports