Capitals announce Evgeny Kuznetsov leaving the NHL indefinitely

Earlier today, rumours that something may be brewing began when Capitals' forward Evgeny Kuznetsov was not at practice. Now, the Capitals have officially announced that Kuznetsov will be leaving the team indefinitely to enter the NHL's player assistance program.

The Capitals nor the league provided any reasoning as to why Kuznetsov is entering the program, as is entirely his right. In a statement from the NHL, the league said that Kuznetsov will return to hockey once he is cleared by the program's administration.




Kuznetsov has struggled on the ice this year, only scoring 6 goals and 11 points in 43 games. He's signed to this year and next year for $7.8M.

Kuznetsov will mark the 7th player to enter the program this year. It's a noticeable uptick in the use of the program, and it's amazing to see players beginning to open up to the resources available for off-ice issues. Hopefully Kuznetsov gets the help he needs and can be back on the ice soon.