Former Capitals Center Kuznetsov's Father Passes Away at 60
Evgeny Kuznetsov Sr., the father of former Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov, died Sunday at age 60. Kuznetsov's mother shared the news, and his agent said the death came after an extended illness. The loss occurred weeks after Kuznetsov left KHL club Sibir Novosibirsk to be with family amid a health issue; his father had been present when Kuznetsov won the Stanley Cup in 2018.
Evgeny Kuznetsov Sr. was 60 when he died Sunday. Kuznetsov’s mother, Larisa Kuznetsova, shared the news, while agent Shumi Babaev said the death followed a long illness and offered condolences. The timing followed Kuznetsov’s Oct. 2 mutual exit from Sibir Novosibirsk after eight games; he had requested release because of a family health matter and spent 56 days with the club.
Kuznetsov Sr. shared in his son’s hockey milestones, joining Capitals dads’ trips and attending the 2018 Stanley Cup win and the 2023 Stadium Series in Raleigh. Since 2024-25, Kuznetsov has skated for four KHL clubs, and he has not said what he will do next.
The death may resonate most with hockey fans, especially Capitals supporters who followed Kuznetsov’s career and his father’s visible presence at team events. It could also draw attention to how athletes balance professional commitments and family health, and may shape perceptions of Kuznetsov’s immediate future. Teammates, family, and KHL followers could feel the loss, while the story may remind audiences that grief can interrupt careers regardless of public profile.