Two seasons after improbably leading the Capitals in points, Evgeny Kuznetsov is doing it again. Through 32 games this season, Kuznetsov has 34 points, joining Alex Ovechkin (33) as the only point-per game player on the the Capitals.
Tuesday night against the Avalanche, Kuznetsov was the most dominant player on the ice, assisting on three goals including Brett Connolly’s game winner. According to Caps PR, tonight’s game marked the third time Kuznetsov recorded three assists in a contest this season, a team high. It’s also the sixth time this year Kuznetsov has recorded multiple assists in a single game.
Kuzy’s apples were delicious.
🍎 Primary assist on Vrana goal
Kuznetsov helped give the Caps an early lead in the first period after going coast-to-coast. Kuzy hung onto the puck and drew four defenders’ attention before finding Jakub Vrana on the wing for his ninth goal of the season.
🍎🍎 Secondary assist on Connolly goal
Kuznetsov registered his second assist on the night in the third period as the Capitals had an extra attacker on a delayed penalty.
The Russian center hit Madison Bowey in rhythm who then fired a perfect cross-ice goal to Brett Connolly for the eventual GWG.
🍎🍎🍎 Primary assist on Niskanen goal
Finally in the third period, Kuzy drew the attention of 19-year-old defenseman Samuel Girard before slinging the puck over to Matt Niskanen for a layup.
Over the offseason, Kuznetsov became the top paid center on the Capitals and one of the highest-paid centers in the league. Only 25 years of age, Kuznetsov is already showing he was worthy of the long-term commitment.
It was just that kind night for the @Kuzya92. 🍎🍎🍎 pic.twitter.com/e1Jufae4oF
— NHL (@NHL) December 13, 2017
