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July 27, 2026Sources cited
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Evgeny Kuznetsov

Evgeny Kuznetsov is a Russian professional ice hockey forward and centre from Chelyabinsk, Russia.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Evgeny Kuznetsov is a Russian professional ice hockey forward and centre from Chelyabinsk, Russia. He became known in the NHL with the Washington Capitals, and has also played in the KHL, including for Traktor Chelyabinsk, SKA Saint Petersburg, Metallurg Magnitogorsk, and Salavat Yulaev Ufa.

Early life and junior career

Kuznetsov was born in Chelyabinsk and developed as a player in Russia before turning professional. He came to wider attention through his performances at junior international tournaments and in domestic Russian hockey.

NHL career

Drafted 26th overall in 2010 by Washington, Kuznetsov became a major part of the Capitals' offence. He later joined the Carolina Hurricanes in 2024 before his NHL contract was terminated.

Return to the KHL

After his NHL stint, Kuznetsov returned to Russia and signed with SKA Saint Petersburg in 2024. He subsequently played for Metallurg Magnitogorsk and Salavat Yulaev Ufa.

International play

Kuznetsov has represented Russia at both junior and senior levels. His international honours include gold medals at the 2011 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships and the 2012 and 2014 IIHF World Championships.

Key facts

  • Began professional career in Russia before becoming a first-round NHL draft pick in 2010.
  • Spent most of his NHL career with the Washington Capitals and later briefly played for the Carolina Hurricanes.
  • Helped Washington win the 2018 Stanley Cup and scored the overtime goal in Game 6 of the 2018 Eastern Conference Second Round against Pittsburgh.
  • Represented Russia in junior and senior international play, winning gold at the 2011 World Junior Championship and the 2012 and 2014 IIHF World Championships.
  • Returned to the KHL in 2024, signing with SKA Saint Petersburg, and later played for Metallurg Magnitogorsk and Salavat Yulaev Ufa.
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Canadian context

He is relevant to Canadian readers mainly through his NHL career and his performances against Canadian teams in league and playoff play.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Evgeny Kuznetsov?
He is a Russian professional ice hockey forward and centre who has played in the NHL and KHL.
Which NHL team drafted Kuznetsov?
The Washington Capitals drafted him 26th overall in 2010.
Did Kuznetsov win a Stanley Cup?
Yes. He won the Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals in 2018.
Which teams has Kuznetsov played for?
His clubs have included Traktor Chelyabinsk, Washington Capitals, Carolina Hurricanes, SKA Saint Petersburg, Metallurg Magnitogorsk, and Salavat Yulaev Ufa.
What international titles has he won?
He won gold at the 2011 World Junior Championship and the 2012 and 2014 IIHF World Championships.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evgeny_Kuznetsov
    Supports: Birth date, full name, teams played for, international honours, and 2024 return to the KHL.
  2. National Hockey League — https://www.nhl.com/player/evgeny-kuznetsov-8475744
    Supports: Draft status, NHL teams, birthplace, and notable NHL achievements.
  3. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/nhl/player/stats/_/id/5647/evgeny-kuznetsov
    Supports: Birthdate, birthplace, position, and draft information.
  4. CBS Sports — https://www.cbssports.com/nhl/players/2119761/evgeny-kuznetsov/
    Supports: KHL contract details and career totals in recent seasons.
  5. Yahoo Sports — https://sports.yahoo.com/former-carolina-hurricanes-center-evgeny-161856941.html
    Supports: Signing with SKA Saint Petersburg and return to Russia.