The Evgeny Kuznetsov Sweepstakes: Are the Maple Leafs or Panthers a True Fit?

0 Diana khan September 29, 2025

The rumor mill is churning, and a familiar name is back at the center of it: Evgeny Kuznetsov. Reports indicate the former Stanley Cup champion is eyeing a dramatic return to the NHL, and his agent has name-dropped two Eastern Conference powerhouses as potential suitors: the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Florida Panthers. While the idea of Kuznetsov’s skill and veteran presence landing in either Toronto or Florida is tantalizing, a closer look reveals a complicated path forward for both clubs. Is this a genuine possibility, or just late-summer chatter?

A Logjam in Toronto and Patience in Florida

Let’s get right to it: from where I’m sitting, the fit is awkward at best. Reports out of Toronto have consistently pointed to a forward logjam. The Maple Leafs are deep up front, and the front office has been signaling a potential move to clear cap space, not add another veteran center to the mix. Unless General Manager Brad Treliving has a significant trade up his sleeve that would open a roster spot and cap space, adding Kuznetsov seems counterintuitive to their current strategy. It just doesn’t align with the team’s immediate needs or roster construction.

Meanwhile, in Sunrise, the Florida Panthers are dealing with the absence of their captain, Aleksander Barkov. However, the organization appears committed to giving internal candidates the first shot at filling that void. The Panthers have the luxury of time and a deep roster. They can afford to see how their prospects and depth players perform before rushing to the free-agent market. While a player of Kuznetsov’s caliber is always intriguing, Florida seems more likely to assess their needs closer to the trade deadline, not at the start of the season.

Where Does Kuznetsov Go From Here?

Ultimately, Kuznetsov’s desire to return is clear, but the timing and fit with these two specific teams are questionable. For a deal to materialize with either the Toronto Maple Leafs or Florida Panthers, other pieces would need to move first. Both teams are in “win-now” mode, but their current paths don’t seem to intersect with adding a 33-year-old center, no matter how skilled he is.

It’s a classic case of a talented player looking for a home, but the most-rumored destinations having no vacancies. This situation is one to watch, but fans in Toronto and Florida shouldn’t hold their breath just yet.