The Washington Capitals made a surprising move by placing Evgeny Kuznetsov on waivers after he was cleared to resume practicing following a stint in the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program. General manager Brian MacLellan stated that waiving the 31-year-old Russian center is aimed at providing Kuznetsov with the fresh start he desires, suggesting a change of scenery may be beneficial for him.
With one year remaining on his contract and $8 million owed to him, it is unlikely that Kuznetsov will be claimed by another team. MacLellan anticipates Kuznetsov being assigned to Hershey of the American Hockey League if he clears waivers on Sunday.
It remains uncertain whether Kuznetsov will report to Hershey. The Capitals' decision to waive him signifies that his future with the team is in doubt, especially considering his inconsistent performance in recent seasons.
Kuznetsov's struggles this season led to his entry into the player assistance program, where he spent a month receiving care. His on-ice production declined significantly, with just 17 points in 43 games before seeking assistance.
The emergence of 22-year-old Hendrix Lapierre has been a bright spot for the Capitals, as he has contributed significantly since joining the team. Lapierre's impact, along with the coaching of Spencer Carbery, has helped Washington remain competitive in the playoff race.
MacLellan emphasized the importance of Kuznetsov addressing personal issues and rediscovering his top form. The Capitals are open to retaining part of Kuznetsov's salary to facilitate a potential trade before the upcoming deadline.
Looking ahead, Washington's focus is on building for the future by adding young talent to the roster. The team is expected to explore trade options for several players, prioritizing the long-term success of the club over short-term gains.
As the Capitals navigate these roster changes and approach the trade deadline, the team's commitment to developing young players and fostering a competitive culture remains paramount.
