Capitals' Kuznetsov Enters NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse Program

Fourth Player This Season to Seek Help; Details to Come

Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov has entered the NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program.

Kuznetsov is the fourth player this season announced to be in the joint NHL/NHLPA program after New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal, Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly, and Vancouver Canucks forward Brock Boeser.

The NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program is a confidential program that provides players with access to a variety of resources, including counseling, treatment, and support. The program is designed to help players address substance abuse and mental health issues that may be affecting their lives and careers.

Kuznetsov's decision to enter the program comes after a difficult season for the Capitals. The team has struggled to find consistency and is currently out of playoff contention. Kuznetsov has also had a disappointing season, scoring just nine goals and 23 assists in 55 games.

The Capitals issued a statement saying that they support Kuznetsov's decision to enter the program and that they will continue to provide him with support. The team also said that Kuznetsov will be out indefinitely while he undergoes treatment.

Kuznetsov's decision to enter the program is a reminder that substance abuse and mental health issues can affect anyone, including professional athletes. It is also a sign of the NHL and NHLPA's commitment to providing players with the resources they need to address these issues.

More details about Kuznetsov's situation will be released as they become available.

Updated: 10:23 PM PDT March 2, 2024

Original: 9:10 AM PDT February 6, 2024