Despite lackluster offensive performances, the Washington Capitals are holding on to their good position in the table, but some players are acting as passengers.
That would be the case with Evgeny Kuznetsov, who is being sidelined by head coach Spencer Carbery for Monday night’s game against the Arizona Coyotes. The Russian striker could have played his 700th game in the National League, except of course he will have to wait until he reaches that plateau.
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According to The Washington Post newspaper, Carbery granted the 31-year-old a leave of absence for a “mental reset.” Kuznetsov may need to regain his senses after picking up just one point and nine total in 19 matches in his last six games this season.
A costly penalty at the end of the second period in Saturday’s 4-1 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights may also have motivated this decision. He then sat on the bench for the final six minutes of the game.
This is the first time since 2021 that Kuznetsov has been sidelined despite being healthy. At that time it was a disciplinary measure. Over the past few months, the veteran has also seemed increasingly dissatisfied with his situation with the Capitals and has reportedly requested a trade.
Earlier this season, the Washington team also lost forward Anthony Mantha after a series of difficult games.