Rumors have been swirling for weeks about a potential blockbuster move involving Evgeny Kuznetsov and the Montreal Canadiens, fueling excitement and speculation among fans and insiders alike.

With Kuznetsov himself openly expressing interest in wearing the Habs jersey, many believed his arrival in Montreal was all but inevitable—especially given the team’s need for a skilled center. However, behind the scenes, the situation has taken a dramatic turn.

Recent developments suggest that the Canadiens’ front office, led by Kent Hughes, may have reconsidered their plans after making significant roster changes. The acquisition of Zachary Bolduc and other key moves appear to have shifted the team’s priorities, casting doubt on Kuznetsov’s future in Montreal.

As new details emerge and the rumor mill continues to churn, the story of Kuznetsov and the Canadiens remains one of the most captivating sagas of the offseason, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next twist.

Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

The excellent Marco D’Amico has made a new announcement regarding the rumors linking forward Evgeny Kuznetsov to Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens.

Let’s recall that Kuznetsov openly declared he wanted to play for the Habs, having been on the same line as a certain Ivan Demidov last season.

Let’s also not forget that the Habs need a center – which Kuznetsov is.

It was quite surprising, then, to see that the Canadiens showed absolutely no interest in a center who recorded 37 points in 39 KHL games last season, and 55 points in 81 NHL games in 2023.

Today, everything is becoming clear.

Marco D’Amico reveals that the Montreal Canadiens were interested in signing Evgeny Kuznetsov, but later changed their mind

On July 1st (and prior to that date), Kent Hughes was indeed interested in Kuznetsov.

The acquisition of forward Zachary Bolduc seems to have changed the situation in this case.

Marco D’Amico talks about Evgeny Kuznetsov and the Montreal Canadiens at the 3-minute mark here.

“Would Evgeny Kuznetsov have been the second-line center if he had signed?

We know he’s interested in playing in Montreal, and we now know (via Marco D’Amico on The Shaun Starr Show) that the team was also interested before July 1st.

Now, especially since acquiring Zachary Bolduc, bringing him to town would be more difficult.” – DLC

They also discuss the acquisition of Joe Veleno, which seems to be the final nail in the coffin for rumors linking Kuznetsov to Montreal.

Evgeny Kuznetsov: the arrival of Zachary Bolduc closed the door on a deal with the Habs.

Personally, I believe a name like Nazem Kadri, who is available with the Calgary Flames, is much more appealing than Kuznetsov.. But if the latter is willing to come try out at the next Canadiens training camp, why not?