On Monday, Ak Bars of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) have signed NHL UFA forward Kevin Hayes to a one-year deal. The forward spent the past two seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins, recording eight points with four goals and four assists in 28 regular-season games in 2025-2026.
Kevin Hayes played 12 seasons in the NHL, appearing in 861 games and recording 472 (193+279) points. He was selected by the Chicago Blackhawks in the first round, 24th overall, at the 2010 NHL Draft. Across his NHL career, Hayes represented the Penguins, St. Louis Blues, Philadelphia Flyers, Winnipeg Jets, and New York Rangers.
“Hayes is an experienced center who spent 12 seasons in the NHL and played important roles for top teams throughout his career,” Ak Bars’ General Manager Marat Valiullin said. “We quickly found common ground from the very beginning of negotiations. It was important for us that Hayes himself wanted to come to the KHL. We were particularly impressed by Kevin’s desire to play a lot, take responsibility, and win. His goal is to lift a trophy with Ak Bars.”
We expect Hayes to strengthen our game and help his teammates bring out their best qualities. We have a lot of young players, and it will be very valuable for them to see a professional with such a career and work ethic alongside them every day. Kevin is used to playing an important role on his teams, and we expect the same from him at Ak Bars.”
“Joining Ak Bars is a great opportunity to bring my skills, leadership qualities, and the experience I’ve gained throughout my career to a new league,” said Hayes, who is rumored to earn a salary of 80 million rubles, roughly $1 million, which would make him the second-best paid player within Ak Bars following Alexander Chmelevski. “I want to contribute and do everything possible to help us achieve our common goals. I’ve always tried to give my all and work hard. It’s important to me not only to play my best hockey but also to help the team become stronger.”
“I’ve heard nothing but good things about Kazan from many NHL players. I know the city loves hockey and has high expectations for the team. Ak Bars came close to its goal last season, and I want to help the team take that final step toward the ultimate prize. My wife is from Russia, and she has always wanted me to play here. An exciting new chapter is beginning for our whole family, and we’re all very happy about it. I’m looking forward to arriving in Kazan, meeting the team, and seeing the fans.”
The KHL season will kick off on Sep. 5 as Ak Bars will be hunting its fourth Gagarin Cup triumph after lifting the trophy in 2008, 2009, and 2018.
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