Capitals C Evgeny Kuznetsov enters player assistance program

Field Level Media|published: Mon 5th February, 17:16 2024

Jan 27, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov (92) in action during the game between the Dallas Stars and the Washington Capitals at the American Airlines Center. credits: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program on Monday.

Kuznetsov will be out indefinitely as he receives care from the program.

The program was developed to help players and their families with struggles pertaining to mental health, substance abuse and related issues.

Kuznetsov, 31, has played his entire 11-year NHL career in Washington since the Capitals made him a first-round pick (No. 26 overall) in the 2010 draft. Frequently centering Washington's top line that stars Alex Ovechkin, Kuznetsov has tallied 568 points (171 goals, 397 assists) in 723 career games.

Kuznetsov has just 17 points (six goals, 11 assists) in 43 games this season.

The Capitals recalled forward Michael Sgarbossa from AHL affiliate Hershey to take Kuznetsov's place on the roster.

—Field Level Media