Evgeny Kuznetsov to practice with the Bears but saga continues

The biggest Washington Capitals story over the weekend wasn't their big win over the Flyers or even their crushing defeat to the Coyotes that all but completly sunk their playoff hopes. Or completely sank it. We find out in the coming days.

The big story involved a player who hadn't suited up for a Caps game since Jan. 27 against the Stars which resulted in a brutal loss before the all star break. Of course we are talking about the great Evgeny Kuznetsov and I still think he's a great player because he ALWAYS will be the one who got the Caps past that dreadful second round.

But this relationship may very well lead to a breakup or a what could've been. Many fans I've chatted with believe that Kuznetsov already suited up for his last game. Insiders and radio hosts are nodding their heads too.

But the Capitals and the Bears insist that Kuznetsov is in Hershey practcing today. He hasn't been cleared to play so he won't talk to the media until that happens, per John Walton on the Caps This Morning podcast.

What Kuznetsov can do once he's cleared to play is dominate at the AHL level which could get his confidence back up. Over in Pittsburgh, the Penguins put Matthew Phillips on waivers and if nobody else claims him, the Capitals could and send him to Herhsey which would scare the rest of that league considering the Bears are so dominant.

But a breakup could still be on the horizon and Peter Hassett of RMNB does a good job explaining each scenario which could include a potential buyout.

Whatever happens to Kuznetsov, the Capitals still need to practice and focus on the next game which includes the Pittsuburgh Penguins between now and Friday's 3 p.m. trade deadline.