Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov has entered the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, leaving the team to prepare for the remainder of the season without him. Kuznetsov will be away from the team indefinitely as he seeks the necessary care. Although his absence poses a challenge for the Capitals, the priority is to support Kuznetsov and his family during this time.
The lack of detailed information available to the team regarding Kuznetsov’s situation has left everyone with limited knowledge. Coach Spencer Carbery mentioned that the organization, staff, and players can only offer their support without a clear understanding of the circumstances. As a result, their main focus is on Kuznetsov’s well-being and recovery.
Kuznetsov’s career has seen its fair share of ups and downs. As the leading scorer during the Capitals’ 2018 Stanley Cup victory, he showcased his skill and potential. However, he has faced various challenges since then. In 2019, he received a three-game suspension by the NHL for “inappropriate conduct,” and he was later banned from playing for Russia for four years due to a positive test for cocaine. In recent seasons, his performance has been inconsistent, with strong seasons followed by disappointing ones.
The absence of Kuznetsov leaves a significant void in the center position for the Washington Capitals. Veteran winger T.J. Oshie acknowledged the challenge of replacing a player like Kuznetsov, who played a crucial role during their Stanley Cup run. Oshie emphasized the need for collective effort among the centermen to fill the gaps left by Kuznetsov’s absence, particularly in faceoffs, penalty killing, and power play situations. The rest of the team must also support their centermen to ensure a smoother transition.
To fill the void left by Kuznetsov, the Capitals have called up Michael Sgarbossa from the Hershey Bears of the American Hockey League. The 31-year-old forward will be expected to contribute to the team during Kuznetsov’s absence. Although Sgarbossa may not replicate Kuznetsov’s skills entirely, he will bring his own strengths and play a vital role in supporting the team.
Coach Carbery acknowledged the importance of addressing Kuznetsov’s departure with the players. Despite the limited information he could provide, he aimed to reassure the team and remind them of their support for their teammate and his family. The conversations within the Capitals primarily revolved around expressing concern and extending well-wishes to Kuznetsov and his loved ones.
At this time, there is uncertainty regarding the duration of Kuznetsov’s absence. As he is in the penultimate season of an eight-year, $62.4 million contract, his absence could potentially have implications for the team’s future plans. However, the focus remains on Kuznetsov’s well-being, and any decisions regarding his contract will be addressed at a later time.
Kuznetsov joins the ranks of other players who have entered the joint NHL/NHLPA program this season. Columbus’ Patrik Laine and Colorado’s Samuel Girard and Valeri Nichushkin have also sought assistance through the program. Girard spoke openly about his battle with anxiety and depression, which led to alcohol abuse. After taking a leave of absence, he returned to practice in November and played his first game on New Year’s Eve.
Evgeny Kuznetsov’s entry into the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program has left the Washington Capitals with a void to fill. While the team faces the challenge of compensating for his absence, their primary concern is supporting Kuznetsov throughout his journey to seek the help he needs. With the collective effort of the team, the Capitals aim to navigate through this period and maintain their competitiveness on the ice.
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