The Capitals forward wants a change in scenery, per general manger Brian MacLellan.

WASHINGTON — Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetesov has cleared waivers and has been assigned to the AHL's Hershey Bears.

It is unclear at this time if Kuznetsov will report to or play for Hershey, who sits atop the AHL standings. Washington saves $1.15 million in cap space with him in the minors.

Kuznetsov was placed on waivers Saturday after being cleared to practice by the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. He is in the follow-up care phase of the program, which he entered in February when the team returned from the NHL All-Star break.

As general manager Brian MacLellan explained, Kuznetsov was placed on waivers amid his request for a change of scenery.

"It's about a fresh start for Kuzy, first of all," MacLellan said. "He's been looking for a change in environment, and this might set the wheels in motion for that to be accomplished."

The 31-year-old has struggled to find consistency over the last handful of seasons since leading D.C. in scoring during the 2018 Stanley Cup run, while he's also ran into off-ice issues.

He skated in just 43 games this season, picking up six goals and 11 assists for 17 points while experiencing a healthy scratch and seeing his minutes drop.

"We have a history here that's going on for a while, and I think it's frustrating on both sides," MacLellan said. "So it's just an opportunity for our side to start fresh and to get him to try to give him an opportunity to continue his career."

The Capitals will continue to explore options regarding Kuznetsov with the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline on Friday, and though MacLellan said it's not impossible that Kuznetsov could play for Washington again, he will look to accommodate his request for a differenet playing environment. Waivers were the beginning of that process.