Washington Capitals: Evgeny Kuznetsov 2020 Report Card

Evgeny Kuznetsov is our final Washington Capitals 2020 report card.

I know every Washington Capitals fan is mixed on Evgeny Kuznetsov but this writer and fan likes him and wishes nothing but the 2018 playoff version of Kuzy. He knows he can tap into that potential and I believe trading him would not make the team better but worse. Let’s break down how he did last season.

Kuznetsov’s numbers did take a dip this season but keep in mind there was less games played due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. Kuznetsov had 19 goals and 33 assists for 52 points in 63 games. It was a sesaon that began with him suspended for three games. He has since taken care of those off the ice issues and he hopes to have an even better season on the ice this upcoming season.

In the playoffs, Kuznetsov had three goals and two assists for five points in eight games including two goals and two assists in the series against the New York Islanders.

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That is OK in an otherwise lackluster performance by the whole team. As bad as he was in the regular season, he improved in the playoffs.

If Kuznetsov can take his playoff performance into the regular season and get up for any game regardless if it was the Buffalo Sabres or Pittsburgh Penguins, he would be golden.

Peter Laviolette is probably watching film on Kuznetsov as we speak and is ready to encourage his center and bring out the best in him. Laviolette will be the perfect motivator for the tall task of improving Kuzy’s game.

Like last season, Kuznetsov got off to a hot start but cooled off midway through the year. That’s probably why the trade Kuzy debate even happened in the first place with that big cap hit and the inconsistency.

Grade C+: Kuznetsov still had a decent season to earn a slightly above average grade. His playoff performance was taken into consideration and saved his game. Kuznetsov will be expected to up his game and having a new coach in Peter Laviolette will help that cause. Expect him to take the top line on opening night centering Alex Ovechkin and Tom Wilson.

We hope we can see 2018 playoff Kuzy all next season. It’s up to him to reach that potential. If he does that expect a 20 goal season while leading the team in assists or at least being close to Nicklas Backstrom.