Capitals’ Kuznetsov Receives Max Fine For High-Sticking Acciari In Game 3

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Washington Capitals forward Evgeny Kuznetsov received the maximum fine under the NHL’s CBA for high-sticking Noel Acciari in the Capitals’ 6-1 win over the Florida Panthers on Saturday.

The NHL Department of Player Safety announced that Kuznetsov has been fined $5,000 for his actions in Game 3.

Late in the first period, Kuznetsov and Acciari appeared to be exchanging words and pushing and shoving after the whistle. Kuznetsov then appeared to poke Acciari in the chin with the blade of his stick. The officials escorted both of them back to their respective benches, and they continued to exchange words. There were no penalties on the play.

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Luckily for the Capitals, Kuznetsov avoided a suspension. He has one goal through three playoff games so far, and the team is already without Tom Wilson (lower-body, day-to-day) on the top six. Acciari has appeared in two playoff games for Florida so far.

Washington will host the Panthers for Game 4 of the first round of the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs on Monday. The Capitals lead the series 2-1.