Evgeny Kuznetsov was injured in SKA Saint Petersburg’s 8-5 victory over Severstal Cherepovets, Friday.
The former Capitals forward was hobbled in the first period after raising his stick to knock a puck out of the air. Kuznetsov seemed to immediately favor his shoulder and could be seen writhing in pain as he made his way down the tunnel to the locker room. He was then taken to the hospital.
Bad news for SKA. pic.twitter.com/RU8zkWND3F
— KHL (@khl_eng) September 28, 2024
“After the examination, it turned out that the injury sustained by our leader Evgeny Kuznetsov was quite serious. It will take Kuzya about two months to return to action,” SKA head coach Roman Rotenberg said per sports.ru and a Google translation. “We have developed a detailed plan for his recovery, doctors and physical training coaches will work with Zhenya at each stage. We will not rush the preparation – we and the entire league need a completely healthy Kuzya who will be able to show his skills at 100 percent. Zhenya is the best player in the KHL, the team leader both on the ice and in the locker room. I have no doubt that fans of all teams, not just SKA, are waiting for his return along with the team.”
Rotenberg added, “Of course, this is a big loss for us, but, as I said yesterday, all the guys played for our Kuzya, we dedicated the victory to him, and in the future we will also win, including for him. I sincerely wish Zhenya health and a speedy recovery, we look forward to his full recovery and return to the ice!”
Kuznetsov has tallied 5 points (1g, 4a) in 9 games with SKA along with a plus-minus of plus-3. He was averaging 13:26 of ice time.
Tony DeAngelo, who signed a one-year deal on September 23, made his KHL debut in the game and recorded 3 assists.
