The ex-Capitals center was honored at the first media timeout of the Capitals' tilt against the Hurricanes.
WASHINGTON — Former Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov knew that Friday would be emotional, and he was all smiles and visibly moved as he was honored in his first game back at Capital One Arena since being traded to the Carolina Hurricanes.
Washington had a video tribute ready for Kuznetsov, which featured some of his milestones, famous slow-mo shootout goals and some clips from his 2018 run that helped the Capitals to their first Stanley Cup.
The 31-year-old was visibly emotional as he watched and then skated out and saluted the crowd. He received a standing ovation, with fans singing "Kuuuuuuuz."
Here's the tribute:
Kuznetsov's tenure with the Capitals lasted 11 years, and he picked up 173 goals and 397 assists for 568 points in 732 total games in D.C. Despite a handful of All-Star seasons, run-ins with off-ice issues and inconsistency led to a frustrating end to his time with Washington.
He had just 17 points in 43 games with the Capitals this season before entering the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. After returning, he was waived and assigned to the AHL's Hershey Bears to accommodate his request for a change in scenery.
Kuznetsov was traded to the Hurricanes at the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline after requesting a change in scenery.
"It was 11 years, and both of my kids born there, and that city is a massive chunk in my heart. And unfortunately, I have to leave that way, on that note, but you know, that’s life. No regrets in my life, and I’m gonna remember for the rest of my life the time over there," Kuznetsov told reporters in Raleigh after his trade. "It was amazing, amazing memories, bad, good, all kind of memories and you know, happy to be here and new chapter in my life."