The Washington Capitals are "weary of Evgeny Kuznetsov's shenanigans," according to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, once of TSN and now of Daily Faceoff, and may look to move on from the gifted forward this offseason.
'Simply put, the Caps are tired of Kuznetsov's antics. From being one of the only NHL players to test positive for Covid-19 twice this season, to his four-year suspension from international hockey after testing positive for cocaine, the time is right for change. Kuznetsov is unquestionably a talented player see his Conn Smythe-worthy playoff run in 2018 but an inconsistent one. His contract will be difficult to move, but perhaps less so after the Caps pay his $5 million signing bonus due in July.''
For the next four years, the 29-year-old Russian will be paid $7.8 million every season. If the Capitals are serious about selling him, they'll have to take a pay cut and possibly sweeten the deal. To be honest, I don't think the Capitals will be able to get full value for Kuznetsov if they decide to move him this offseason. This is what a "sell low" scenario looks like.
Yes, Kuznetsov suffered this season, but by any measure, this was not a typical season for him. Would it surprise anyone if Kuznetsov returned to a 70-point pace next season? He only had nine goals and 29 points in 41 games this season, which would have been his worst performance since joining the league in 2013-14 over the course of a whole 82-game season. In normal circumstances, he's a consistent 20-goal scorer and definitely has connection with captain Alex Ovechkin. For years, the Capitals have had the luxury of a potent one-two punch at centre ice in Kuznetsov and Nicklas Backstrom.
