3 reasons to explain Evgeny Kuznetsov's dramatic fall from grace in NHL

NHL: Stanley Cup Playoffs-New York Islanders at Carolina Hurricanes
3 reasons to explain Evgeny Kuznetsov's dramatic fall from grace in NHL (Image credit: Imagn)

Evgeny Kuznetsov has officially cleared waivers, allowing him to go to Russia and as rumors suggest possibly sign in the KHL. Kuznetsov was one of the best players in the NHL, but he is now out of the league.

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There are a couple of reasons why Kuznetsov had a dramatic fall from grace in the NHL, but here are three key ones.


3 reasons to explain Evgeny Kuznetsov's dramatic fall from grace

#1. Drug problems

The biggest issue for Evgeny Kuznetsov was his problem with drugs, specifically cocaine. In 2019, Kuznetsov was suspended for four years by the IIHF after testing positive for cocaine. In February of the same year, he entered the NHL/NHLPA Players Assistance Program, which helps players with substance abuse.

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"There's not a lot of background of what we know," coach Spencer Carbery said (via CBC). "There's not a lot of background information that they share with us, other than just the fact that he's in the program. So, for us, as organization, staff, players, it's just supporting him and his family as he gets the help that he needs."
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Kunzetsov's play slowed down after his first positive cocaine test.

#2. Questionable mentality

Evgeny Kuznetsov has had a questionable mentality when it comes to winning in the past. Back in 2018, when he was in the running to be the NHL MVP, Kuznetsov gave a surprising answer when asked about the race:

“To be MVP, you have to work hard 365 (days) in a year, but I’m not ready for that. I want to have fun, and I want to make those risky plays when sometimes you don’t have to play and you guys don’t understand every time those plays.
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"It’s not easy to make. But to be MVP in this league, you have to play even better. You have to go next level. It’s not easy. More importantly, you have to stay focused 365 (days), but that’s not my style.” [H/T Sportsnet]

His effort on the ice has also been criticized.

#3. Inconsistent play

Evgeny Kuznetsov has struggled at times, as he is one of the more inconsistent players in the NHL which likely impacted his downfall. He came into the NHL as a highly-touted prospect and had 77 points in his second season. However, in the past two years, he recorded 55 points and 24 points, as his play dropped off from what it was when he was helping the Washington Capitals win the Stanley Cup.

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Edited by Garima
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