Evgeny Kuznetsov opens up about his struggles: "Nobody believed me"
After signing with SKA Ice Hockey Club in the KHL, Evgeny Kuznetsov has finally addressed his struggles during the Player Assistance Program.
Kuznetsov had been a key player for the Washington Capitals over the past decade, consistently notching at least 50 points in seven seasons. However, his performance waned last season, leading to his entry into the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. Curiously, the same day he was cleared, the Capitals placed him on waivers, making him available for other teams.
The Capitals have placed him on waivers 👀"/q>
Soon after, Kuznetsov was picked up by the Carolina Hurricanes and returned to NHL action against the New Jersey Devils, marking his first game in over a month.
Despite this opportunity, he struggled to regain his previous form, contributing only 7 points in 20 games with the Hurricanes.
The forward last played in a game on January 27, before entering the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program on February 6."
Kuznetsov revealed that during his time with the Capitals and in the Player Assistance Program, he was not given the proper care or respect he needed.
Diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a condition affecting joint health and stability, he struggled with severe pain, but his condition was not acknowledged, hindering his access to appropriate treatment.
Evgeny Kuznetsov reveals in a new interview that his time in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program and struggles with the Capitals were the result of rheumatoid arthritis."
Fortunately, Kuznetsov's situation has improved, and he is set to return to the ice later this year with a four-year contract signed with SKA Ice Hockey Club in the KHL. Hopefully, his new team in St. Petersburg will provide the support he needs, and the NHL will learn from these oversights.
Source: Hockey Patrol
Evgeny Kuznetsov breaks his silence on his struggles: «No one believed me»
Source: The Hockey News
Kuznetsov Opens Up About Health Problems With Capitals & Why He Entered Player Assistance Program: 'I'd Been Suffering All Year'
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