By Mark Bergin, WRAL senior multiplatform producer

Raleigh, N.C. — The Carolina Hurricanes and forward Evgeny Kuznetsov have agreed to part ways, the team announced on its website.

On Wednesday, the team placed Kuznetsov on unconditional waivers for the purpose of contract termination.

“Ultimately both sides agreed this was the best course of action for both the player and the team,” Canes General Manager Eric Tulsky said in a news release. “We thank Evgeny for his time with the team and wish him and his family the best.”

The Hurricanes save about $3.9 million, which is what Kuznetsov would have made from Carolina in the 2024-25 season had he remained with the team.

Kuznetsov, 32, is expected to play for SKA Saint Petersburg in the KHL in Russia, according to multiple reports.

Kuznetsov played in 20 regular season games for the Hurricanes, producing two goals and five assists for a total of seven points. In the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, he had four goals and two assists for a total of six points in 10 games.

In March, the Canes acquired Kuznetsov from Washington before the trade deadline.

Source: wralsportsfan.com