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Capitals' Evgeny Kuznetsov says he tested positive for COVID-19 for second time

BOSTON, MA - MAY 19: Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov (92) looks to the wing during Game 3 of the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs First Round between the Boston Bruins and the Washington Capitals on May 19, 2021, at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov revealed Thursday that he tested positive for COVID-19 twice, explaining his extended stint in the NHL's COVID-19 protocol.

Kuznetsov was re-inserted into Washington's lineup for Game 3 of its first-round playoff series against the Boston Bruins after missing eight games during his second stint in the protocol.

"It's funny, you know they said it's not a lot of people get it twice, so it wasn't easy to be in hockey shape right away after you sit in the house. But emotions was high, and for these types of games, you always feel extra energy," Kuznetsov said via Samantha Pell of The Washington Post.

Kuznetsov previously missed time in January due to COVID-19 and suited up for 41 games during the 2021 season, registering nine goals and 29 points.

It's been a season like no other with complications from the coronavirus disrupting several teams and players throughout the 2021 season and Kuznetsov unfortunately may have had it worse than anyone else in the league. Here's to hoping that Kuznetsov can stay healthy for the remainder of the postseason — he's a major part of the Capitals' bid to secure their second Cup in four seasons.

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