Veteran NHL center Kevin Hayes has signed a one-year contract with KHL team Ak Bars Kazan after a season with the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he recorded four goals and eight points in 28 games. At 34, Hayes will likely play key minutes with former NHL players in Kazan, who recently reached the Gagarin Cup Final. Originally drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2010, Hayes had a varied career, highlighted by stints with several teams including the Rangers, Jets, and Flyers, accumulating over 400 career points.

By the Numbers
  • Four goals and eight points in 28 games for Pittsburgh in the 2025-26 season.
  • 185 career goals and 445 points in 805 NHL games over 12 seasons.
Yes, But

Despite his offensive contributions and potential, Hayes faced significant challenges during his tenure, including a rocky relationship with coaches and inconsistent performance, particularly with the Flyers where he had a -22 rating in 2022-23.

State of Play
  • Hayes joins Ak Bars Kazan in a league where he can expect substantial ice time.
  • Kazan is looking to build on their recent performance in the Gagarin Cup Final.
What's Next

As Hayes transitions to the KHL, he may look to rejuvenate his career by taking on a larger role, potentially leading to a stronger performance that could rekindle interest from NHL teams in the future.

Bottom Line

Kevin Hayes' move to the KHL offers him an opportunity for a fresh start and a chance to prove his capabilities after a tumultuous period in the NHL, highlighting the unpredictable nature of professional sports careers.