NHL releases statement on the future of Evgeny Kuznetsov.

The Washington Capitals have received some good news to kick off the weekend.

In a joint statement, the National Hockey League and National Hockey League Players Association have announced that Capitals forward Evgeny Kuznetsov has been cleared to resume practice with his teammates after entering the league's Player Assistance Program last month.

Kuznetsov has not yet been cleared to resume play and has entered the follow-up care phase of the league's Player Assistance Program, with no timeline set for his potential return to NHL games.

The timing of Kuznetsov's return could prove fortuitous for the Capitals who currently find themselves sitting outside of the playoff bubble, 4 points back of the Philadelphia Flyers in the NHL's Metropolitan Division. Kutznetsov has historically been an important part of the Capitals offense, although the 31-year old's play has regressed over the past two seasons, and a rejuvinated Kuznetsov could be exaxtly what the Capitals need to get back into playoff contention.

Whether or not Kuznetsov will be able to resume play remains to be seen, as his care continues to be administered pursuant to the league's Player Assistance Program at this time.