Evgeny Kuznetsov missed the Washington Capitals’ first practice since returning from the All-Star break on Monday for what the team called personal reasons. Head coach Spencer Carbery then let assembled media know that there would be an update on Kuznetsov’s status later in the day.
Shortly after 4:30 pm, the league announced that Kuznetsov has entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
Evgeny Kuznetsov (@Capitals) to receive care from NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. https://t.co/CtNevRfsi1 pic.twitter.com/wpjC92CZTI
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 5, 2024
The NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program was established in 1996 and “supports players and their families struggling with drug and alcohol dependency or mental health issues.” Kuznetsov previously voluntarily entered the program, back when it was named the Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program, after testing positive for cocaine at the 2019 IIHF World Championship.
Kuznetsov will be removed from the Capitals’ active roster until he is deemed ready to return to the team. The Capitals recalled forward Mike Sgarbossa on Monday morning to fill Kuznetsov’s vacant roster spot.
In 43 games this season, Kuznetsov has amassed 17 points (6g, 11a).
Our thoughts are with Kuzy and his family during this difficult time. We’re pulling for him.
Here’s the full press release from the NHL:
Capitals’ Kuznetsov to Receive Care from NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program
NEW YORK/TORONTO (Feb. 5, 2024) – The National Hockey League and National Hockey League Players’ Association announced today that forward Evgeny Kuznetsov of the Washington Capitals will be unavailable to his Club for an indefinite period while he receives care from the Player Assistance Program of the NHLPA and NHL.
Under the terms of the joint program, he will return to the Club when cleared for on-ice competition by the program administrators.
