BREAKING: Capitals trade Evgeny Kuznetsov is official

Moments ago, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman broke the news that the Washington Capitals are finalizing a trade to send star forward Evgeny Kuznetsov to the Carolina Hurricanes.

The deal was much more simple than people may have expected considering Kuznetsov's $7.8M salary for the next two years. Carolina has the space to take on his contract, and the Capitals will retain 50% of the salary. The Hurricanes will send just a third round pick to acquire Kuznetsov.

Kuznetsov played just 43 games this season and struggled to produce has much as he has in the past, just scoring 6 goals and 11 assists. Recently he entered the NHL's player assistance program, and was recently cleared to return to play when the Capitals sent him to the AHL.


With the skill and potential to score a point per game, Kuznetsov could be an incredible addition to the Hurricanes if everything goes right. If everything goes wrong, it's just a short term bet. It's a risk, and definitely a worthwhile one.