Washington Capitals Forward Evgeny Kuznetsov Tests Positive For Cocaine, Banned From Russian National Team For Four Years

WASHINGTON (KDKA) -- A major Penguins rival is in a bit of trouble, at least internationally.

Reports surfaced Friday that Washington Capitals forward Evgeny Kuznetsov had tested positive for cocaine while playing for the Russian National Team at the World Championships earlier this Summer. He was also seen in an incriminating Instagram video with a white, powdery substance on the table of a hotel room.

"NHL Evgeny Kuznetsov Who Swore He Wasn't Doing Cocaine With IG Model in Shady Hotel Room, Tests Positive For Cocaine (IG Model Coke Video)"

"Washington #Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov, at Worlds, tested POSITIVE for cocaine. He been banned from the Russian national team for FOUR years. NHL has him in Substance abuse program —no word on anything beyond."

The IIHF has banned Kuznetsov for four years from international play. Meanwhile, the NHL is not making any disciplinary moves at the moment, stating that cocaine is not a performance-enhancing drug, and the player will meet with league commissioner Gary Bettman soon.

"Washington Capitals forward Evgeny Kuznetsov has been suspended four years by the IIHF and must meet with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman before training camp opens Sept. 13 to discuss the situation."

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