Washington Capitals: Top 3 reasons Evgeny Kuznetsov will breakout in 2021-22

1 of 3

Evgeny Kuznetsov, Washington Capitals (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

Here at Stars and Sticks nothing divides us more than our thoughts on Evgeny Kuznetsov. Some of the contributors wanted him traded over the summer. Others were open to giving him one more chance. As for myself, I took a look at both sides of the equation. Alas, nothing happened and here we are. Evgeny Kuznetsov is on the Washington Capitals for 2021-22.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a bad thing. Kuznetsov will be ready to prove the doubters wrong and reclaim the swagger he had in the 2018 playoffs. Sounds bold, I know, but here are three reasons why that will be the case.

Evgeny Kuznetsov, Washington Capitals Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

#3 Return to normal

This will benefit everybody but I could see this really benefiting Kuzy in a big way. Last season, Kuznetsov had nine goals and 20 assists for 29 points in just 41 games. He missed time thanks to the COVID protocols. Now with restrictions loosed for fully vaccinated players (the Caps will be fully vaccinated tomorrow, per General Manager Brian MacLellan), if the Russians decide to hang out in a hotel room maybe there won’t be a fine or suspension.

Kuznetsov also misses you, the fans. He compared going to the rink day after day last season more like a job. Now that we are back in the building, that could give Kuzy a boost and maybe we’ll see more bird cellys.

Home/Editorials