Former Penguins Forward Signs In KHL After 12 NHL Seasons

Ak Bars Kazan has announced that they have signed Hayes to a one-year contract for the 2026-27 season.

Hayes heading to the KHL comes after he spent each of the last two seasons with the Penguins. In 28 games during this past campaign for Pittsburgh, he posted four goals, eight points, 32 hits, and a minus-1 rating. This was after he recorded 13 goals, 10 assists, and 23 points in 64 games with the Penguins during the 2024-25 season.

Overall, Hayes was primarily a depth forward for the Penguins last season but was a solid part of their group because of his leadership qualities. Now, he will be looking to make a big impact in the KHL with Ak Bars Kazan from here.