The Capitals center went down in visible pain as Paul Cotter received a match penalty.
WASHINGTON — The Washington Capitals were able to let out a sigh of relief on Tuesday, as Evgeny Kuznetsov returned to action against the Vegas Golden Knights after exiting following an illegal check to the head.
Kuznetsov was skating in the defensive zone and went to chase after the puck when Paul Cotter came in and hit him in the head with his elbow/shoulder. The Capitals center went down in visible pain and discomfort as his helmet also popped off following the hit.
Athletic trainer Jason Serbus went out to attend to Kuznetsov, who was able to make his way to the bench and down the tunnel.
After a video review, it was determined that Cotter's hit was an illegal check to the head. He received a match penalty on the play.
This was the hit:
Kuznetsov returned after the ensuing five-minute power play expired. He is back taking shifts in his normal place on the top line with Alex Ovechkin and Tom Wilson.
The Russian has three points in his last two games and leads all Capitals forwards in ice time per game. Washington is also dealing with numerous injuries and is currently operating without Anthony Mantha, Max Pacioretty and Nicklas Backstrom up front.
This story is being updated in real time.