Evgeny Kuznetsov asked the Capitals to trade him

Evgeny Kuznetsov has been rolling his hump in Washington for several years now. The Russian center, now 31, is one of the best passers on the Bettman circuit and won the Stanley Cup with the Capitals in 2018.

And really, he’s had some great seasons in town. As recently as 2021-22, for example, he amassed 78 points in 79 games, a more than solid performance.

Yet, despite all this, his career has been tumultuous. The cocaine saga will be remembered, but he has also been at the heart of trade rumours for some time. His agent had even stated that he had wanted to leave the club for a long time.

And today, Caps GM Brian MacLellan confirmed that #92 has requested a trade.

Clearly, Kuznetsov is no longer happy in Washington, and his request for a trade likely confirms this.

That said, MacLellan may have to work hard if he wants to accommodate him. After all, the Russian comes with a cap hit of $7.8 million for each of the next two seasons, and last year he had a difficult season with “only” 55 points in 81 games.

Add to all this the fact that he can submit a list of 10 teams he doesn’t want to be traded to, and with a salary cap that won’t go up, it becomes an increasingly difficult job.

On the other hand, there is a scenario in which a change of scenery will do the Russian forward some good. After all, we’re talking about a guy with great offensive instincts and a hell of a passer.

I’m thinking of certain clubs with mavericks on the wing who could make a good deal by getting their hands on a center like Kuznetsov.

At 31, however, he may be on the decline. I can’t wait to see if the Caps can meet his demand, but clearly, it won’t be an easy task.

To be continued.

In bursts

– We suspected it, but now it’s confirmed.

– Great read on Lane Hutson.

– Well said.

You have to be good to be lucky and lucky to be good

🎥 https://t.co/6eQvHENAmy#GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/GN3lHQvXAC

– Montreal Canadiens (@CanadiensMTL) July 13, 2023

– We wish him well.

– Can’t wait to hear this.