The National Hockey League and the National Hockey League Players Association announced today that Washington Capitals Center Evgeny Kuznetsov has been cleared to resume practicing with the club as he has entered the follow-up phase of the Player Assistance Program, which he entered on February 5th. While it has not been disclosed when Kuznetsov will return to game action, this is a step in the right direction for the 31-year-old to return to play for the team this season.
Kuznetsov is an eleven-year NHL veteran who spent his entire career in Washington, where he‘s amassed 171 goals along with 397 assists for 568 points in 723 games. While nobody likes to see players needing to enter the players' assistance program, it's refreshing to see that he got the help he needed and can presumably continue his career.
While Kuznetsov has been a serviceable player, his numbers dipped last season, and he was off to a slow start this season when he stepped away from the game. The Russians' best season to date was when he helped lead the Capitals to a Stanley Cup during the 2017–2018 season.
Seeking help is something that historically has been frowned upon in society and especially in pro sports, particularly amongst men. Kuznetzsov may have a long way to go before he is seen on the ice at Capital One Arena, but his presence will likely give his teammates a boost during their stretch drive.
