After an illustrious 11-season career in the National Hockey League (NHL), marked by his time with the Washington Capitals and the Carolina Hurricanes and highlighted by a Stanley Cup victory, Evgeny Kuznetsov is set to return to Russia. Reports indicate that Kuznetsov is on the verge of signing a four-year contract with SKA St. Petersburg of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
Throughout his NHL tenure, Kuznetsov has been a prominent figure and a source of inspiration for young Russian players. One notable admirer is Vasily Podkolzin, a forward for the Vancouver Canucks. Podkolzin, who dons number 92 in honor of Kuznetsov, recently expressed his disappointment over Kuznetsov’s departure from the NHL. In an interview with Russia’s Match TV, Podkolzin shared his sentiments about Kuznetsov’s move to the KHL.
Podkolzin, who had previously worn number 19 before it was taken by Volodya Tkachev at SKA, chose number 92 to emulate Kuznetsov, who had previously worn that number. Reflecting on Kuznetsov’s departure, Podkolzin said, “To be honest, I was upset that Kuznetsov went to the KHL. I took number 92 because Zhenya wore it. I used to wear number 19, but when Volodya Tkachev joined SKA, I took 92.”
Podkolzin also expressed his admiration for Kuznetsov’s skills and potential. He remarked, “I always wanted to be somewhat like Kuznetsov. His potential and skill are incredible! I’m very sorry about his move, and I believe we haven’t seen the last of him in the NHL. When he joined Carolina, he adapted well and performed admirably, scoring six points (4+2) in ten playoff games and netting four goals. Nonetheless, since this decision was his own, we must support Kuznetsov. For me, he is a top-class player and one of the best Russian center forwards globally.”
Kuznetsov’s departure from the NHL came last week when the Carolina Hurricanes placed him on unconditional waivers to terminate his contract mutually. This move provides salary cap relief for both the Carolina Hurricanes and the Washington Capitals, the latter of whom had retained 50% of Kuznetsov’s remaining salary when he was traded in March.
Podkolzin’s remarks underscore the respect Kuznetsov commands in the hockey world and the impact he has had on young players in Russia. As Kuznetsov embarks on this new chapter with SKA St. Petersburg, many are left wondering if he might return to the NHL once his KHL contract expires.
