Agent: Kuznetsov Has Interest From Several NHL Teams, Ex-Capitals Center Hasn't Made Decision On Next Steps Yet

"He just wants to play hockey and be trusted," Russian agent Shumi Babayev said of the ex-Capitals star.

Former Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov is reportedly still pondering the next steps in his hockey-playing career as he explores free agency for the first time.

Per sports agent Shumi Babayev, who is said to be representing Kuznetsov, there is interest from 15 NHL teams in the 32-year-old pivot, who is also exploring options in the KHL following reports that he was leaving the NHL in order to play overseas with SKA St. Petersburg.

"He just wants to play hockey and be trusted," Babayev told Russian publication RB Sport. "He still has the ability to play for many years to come. Kuznetsov is in good physical shape... If there was interest in those teams that count on him and let him show his best qualities, he would also consider them."

Kuznetsov terminated the final year of his NHL contract, which he originally signed with the Capitals in 2017, with the Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday after clearing unconditional waivers.

Former teammate and longtime friend Dmitry Orlov said this past week that he believes Kuznetsov still has the talent to play in the NHL, while Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin said that Kuznetsov is in a difficult situation and will do what is best for him and his family.

In addition to the NHL clubs that are interested, Kuznetsov is still receiving a lot of interest in the KHL. Per Business Online, in addition to SKA, Kuznetsov's hometown KHL team, Traktor Chelyabinsk, is also expressing interest in his services and is willing to match SKA's offer.