Evgeny Kuznetsov Finds Himself A New Team After Being Placed On Wiavers
In a move that caught many off guard on Saturday, the Washington Capitals decided to place Evgeny Kuznetsov, their Russian forward, on waivers, aiming to send him down to the American Hockey League.
Given Kuznetsov's hefty cap hit, picking him up off waivers was always going to be a stretch for most teams. A trade, either before the trade deadline or in the offseason, seemed like a more feasible exit strategy. By Sunday, it was clear what the next chapter would be for the Capitals' forward.
The team took to X, to announce that Kuznetsov had cleared waivers and would be joining the Hershey Bears in the AHL.
"#Caps loan forward Evgeny Kuznetsov to the Hershey Bears (AHL)."
31-year-old Kuznetsov had just exited the NHL's Player Assistance Program before his waiver placement, with Capitals General Manager Brian MacLellan noting the move was intended to offer him a "fresh start."
Through 43 games this season, the Chelyabinsk-born player has tallied 17 points, including six goals and 11 assists, alongside 24 penalty minutes, and has a minus-11 rating.
Previously on HockeyUnplugged
POLL |
MARS 3 | 138 ANSWERS Evgeny Kuznetsov Finds Himself A New Team After Being Placed On Wiavers Do you think placing Kuznetsov on waivers was a bad look for the Washington Capitals? |
Yes | 63 | 45.7 % |
No | 75 | 54.3 % |
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