ARLINGTON, VA — Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov hit the ice with his teammates for the first day of Training Camp, but did not look like himself as he conducted his first press conference of the season.

Kuznetsov admitted to reporters Thursday that he was dealing with an injury after favoring one leg during his speed test and limping to the podium.

Kuznetsov further indicated that he played through an injury last season, though declined to offer specifics.

“I’m just faking it,” he joked about his limp. “Yeah, no, it’s all good. I’ll be fine. It’s a process right, a little bit. And I’m pretty sure that there is a lot of small things that bugs people during the summer. So it’s something that I’ll probably fix in the future, in a couple of days probably.”

Several Capitals also mentioned that Kuznetsov was not fully healthy last season.

General manager Brian MacLellan briefly alluded to an earlier injury when speaking about Kuznetsov earlier in the day, saying, “He’s had some health issues, too. I give him a break on that.”

Ovechkin, too, told reporters that Kuznetsov hadn’t been healthy over the last year and suggested it may have led to a decline in play.

“I’m sure he’s going to prove himself from last year because he was hurt as well,” he said. “When you hurt, when you can’t play 100 percent, it’s tough.”

Kuznetsov struggled mightily in 2022-23, putting up 55 points (12g, 43a) for his worst-scoring campaign since his sophomore year. When asked directly, Kuznetsov acquiesced that he’d dealt with injuries over the campaign but did not elaborate, including on whether his current limp was connected.

“A little bit, but nothing that probably I’m going to talk about publicly,” he said. “But there are a lot of guys playing hurt a little bit.”

Though Kuznetsov left multiple games with upper-body injuries last season, his only absence was a one-game suspension for high-sticking last October. He explained Thursday that he preferred to play through injuries if at all possible.

“I’m one of those that always believed, that stuck in my head when Michael Jordan said he had the best game when he was sick, right?” he said. “So I was always thinking about that: if you feel uncomfortable and in pain, whatever, you’ve got to go through it. It kind of feels good when you go through. And mentally, you fight. I feel like if you if you’re able to walk you you’re going to play.”

This previously undisclosed injury — combined with the “bad thoughts… and negativity” Kuzy experienced — may go a long way to explaining his poor season last year.

Headline photo: Elizabeth Kong/RMNB

Thursday marked the official on-ice start of the Spencer Carbery Era in Washington as Capitals’ Training Camp got underway. After serving two years in Toronto as an assistant, Carbery, formerly head coach of both the Hershey Bears and South Carolina Stingrays, will lead a veteran-laden Caps group that missed the playoffs for the first time nine years.

One player that will hold special significance on if Carbery succeeds or struggles early is Evgeny Kuznetsov. Kuznetsov, 31, is headed into his eleventh season with the Caps and is coming off of his worst-scoring campaign (55 points) since his sophomore year in the league.

The Caps are hoping that a youthful, energized head coach like Carbery will be able to push the reset button on Kuznetsov and get him producing at the level he has shown he can in the past.

“I know Spencer has talked to [Kuznetsov] a few times,” MacLellan said. “I’m hoping he, along with the rest of our guys, is energized by a little different philosophy and a new young coach that’s enthusiastic. [Spencer] is building a relationship now with Kuzy so I think it should be positive for him.

“The style that Spencer wants to play and his philosophy of playing the game suits Kuzy. I think [Kuzy] should be in alignment with that and respond well to it.”

That sort of talk is a far cry from the uncertainty that has surrounded Kuznetsov since March of last year when a Russian report from outlet Match TV dropped saying that the Russian pivot had requested a trade from the team for consecutive seasons. A report, that was never directly denied by Kuznetsov and confirmed by the Caps in an article published by senior reporter Mike Vogel on the team’s website.

Multiple trusted reporters from around the league then dished that the Caps were shopping Kuznetsov over the summer. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman divulged that the Caps and Nashville Predators had concrete trade discussions regarding Kuznetsov at the most recent NHL Draft.

“Last year was the tough year, and there was a lot of bad thoughts in my head and negativity because I wasn’t happy the way I played,” Kuznetsov said. “I wasn’t happy the way I performed. I know how can I play and what hockey, what I can bring to the table. I wasn’t happy the way I played and there is frustration, right? When [you’re] frustrated you’re probably thinking about too much.

“I’m not the guy that’s going to get big paycheck and be happy everyday,” Kuznetsov continued later. “So every time I come back home after a bad practice or bad game, I’m beating myself (up) and I’m not happy about (it). Every time I walking in locker room every morning knowing they tell me you’re not performing the way the guys expected me to perform, I’m feeling bad about (it).”

Kuznetsov ended up leaving DC over the summer and spent a good chunk of time in his hometown of Chelyabinsk. He said it helped him feel better because “there is no social media in Russia right now… The only stuff I was able to get is from the friends, or people outside (who) come to me.”

That time away from tweets and posts allowed for him to zero in on what is actually important to him and move on from some of the shame and embarrassment he described feeling last season while playing under former head coach Peter Laviolette.

“I want to be happy and I want the people to be happy (with) the way I play, the way I can play, right?” Kuznetsov said. “So it’s two different things. And I want to be successful too, because my kids grow up, they understand hockey a little bit and now, every time I have a shitty game, they kind of talk to me about that. That’s not good. I can lie to you or anybody else, but not the kids.”

Kuznetsov’s outlook considerably brightened when he was asked to comment on his communications with Carbery. Carbery has long been heralded as a great communicator on an individual basis with players, going as far as saying in June after his hiring that “strong communication is critical” if a team wants to have success. Kuznetsov has already seen that firsthand.

“He’s a great person and I feel like the way he sees hockey — it’s a perfect match for me and a perfect match for a lot of guys inside the team,” Kuznetsov said. “He wants to keep the puck in the middle, he wants to control the game, and he wants to hold onto that puck. I’m a big fan of that when you control the game, when you hold onto that puck, when you’re playing with the puck and you always force the best players in opposition to play without puck. I think that’s how you can keep them frustrated. So, there is a lot of positivity in my head when I talk to him. The most important, he was very honest with me and I was very honest with him too.”

Carbery discussed how he’d handle the talented yet sometimes enigmatic center when he spoke with Vogel on the Break the Ice podcast earlier this month.

The former AHL Coach of the Year stressed information gathering on the player as the first step in that process, wanting to compare Kuznetsov’s peak performance to his most recent play. To do that, he says he needs to rely on members of the Caps organization that have been there through both the highs and the lows.

“Find out from teammates, other coaches, management, scouts, whatever it is, find out what’s made them successful in the past or what have they looked like when they’ve been at their best,” Carbery said. “Now watch the film and see the good of when they were at the top of their game.

“Look at the last 20 games, whatever it is, from the previous season that they played in. What doesn’t look the same? What’s different about this player than what I saw when he was clicking on all cylinders? So try to identify those details inside of their game that potentially I can help them with.”

The next step, he says, is to come up with a collaborative plan.

“There’s no magic pixie dust,” Carbery said. “It’s not like, ‘Okay, good luck. You need to do XYZ.’ I have to help him get there and have to help identify the situations where he’s doing a great job and where he’s not. And it won’t be different for any other player, trying to help them reach their full potential.”

Carbery’s work early already has Kuznetsov back in a good place mentally. “I’m taking one day at the time,” he said. “I’m here today and I’m going to leave everything I have. I’m going to try to help the team to be successful every day.”

Those prior trade talks have also quieted down, too. While MacLellan did indicate that he’ll continue to search for an additional top-six forward this season, the GM made it sound like it would be in addition to Kuznetsov in the lineup.

“It’s been a little frustrating,” MacLellan said of the trade market. “But, we’re still looking for that opportunity to do that. We’ll continue to talk to teams throughout the year on that.

“We need [Kuznetsov]. He’s a good player and we need him to be competitive and our team to be competitive and him to be playing at his top level.”

Kuznetsov’s first day on the ice began with skating on a line with Sonny Milano and Tom Wilson — something the three of them did not do much of last season. Similarly, Kuznetsov’s normal running mate Alex Ovechkin was placed with Nicklas Backstrom and Anthony Mantha. Neither trio played over half an hour of five-on-five minutes together in 2022-23.

“I feel like 12 or 15 forwards that we have can all mix and we can all play hockey.” Kuznetsov said. “So it’s on us to make sure we always execute what the coaches want because the coaches’ plan is very important. I feel like this year, especially this year, it’s very important in the beginning of the season.”

That moment, in October, is where Kuznetsov hopes to make amends and everyone notices a big difference.

“My goal is just to make sure when season starts, every morning I come back, I can look eyes-to-eyes and say ‘guys I did everything’ and they know I was trying and doing my best game,” Kuznetsov said.

Headline photo: Katie Adler/RMNB

ARLINGTON, VA– After suiting up in 39 games last year, Nicklas Backstrom is attempting to become the first player in NHL history to play a full season after having hip resurfacing surgery.

While returning from this procedure in the first place is a significant achievement (only he and Ed Jovanovski have done so), Backstrom’s future has remained in question for much of the offseason, with general manager Brian MacLellan previously stating that the 35-year-old center would “have to make a decision on his career.”

By the first day of 2023 Training Camp, however, Backstrom’s answer is definitive. He’s back, he’s playing, and he feels good. And now, with more than a year of recovery under his belt, Backstrom now wants to put concerns about his hip to rest.

“I’ve got nothing more to say about it — I’m 100%,” Backstrom said. “I’ve done everything I can this summer. I worked really hard, really excited to be here for the training camp.”

The Swedish superstar skated on a line with longtime winger Alex Ovechkin during Group A’s practice. A full participant in Training camp for the first time since 2021-22, Backstrom was ready to get back into the swing of the season.

“Love this team, love this city, love the fans,” Backstrom said. “There’s nothing I’m more excited about than going back playing hockey.”

Backstrom faces a pivotal camp this fall following a challenging 2022-23 campaign. After missing the first 42 games of the season rehabbing from the resurfacing surgery he had in June 2022, he struggled to look like himself upon his return. With Backstrom on the ice at five-on-five, the Capitals were outscored 27-14, out-attempted (476 to 429), and out-chanced (247-200). He ultimately recorded 21 points (7g, 14a) in 39 games, with more than half of that scoring coming on the power play.

Though Backstrom remained optimistic at the end of last season, MacLellan appeared far less so, suggesting Backstrom was at a crossroads and could be at the end of his career.

“I think it’s a tough thing to get through,” he said in April. “We don’t have experience on observing players that have done it. I don’t know what could happen in the offseason to make it significantly better.”

MacLellan stated in June that he would wait until Training Camp to make a final determination on Backstrom’s future. He appeared optimistic when speaking to reporters Thursday, highlighting Backstrom’s progress over the summer.

“I think he had a really good offseason,” he said. I think everything’s positive. I think it’ll be, how he progresses here through camp, through exhibition games and into the season, I think it’s all positive right now.”

Head coach Spencer Carbery seemed to agree, reuniting Backstrom with Ovechkin on a line with Anthony Mantha for the first day of camp. He spoke highly of Backstrom’s recovery last month in an interview with NHL.com’s Tom Gulitti.

“[He] is really, really hungry and lots to prove and his summer of training, I think having the extra time but also being able to fully recover from his surgery and now being able to prepare for a season and a training camp, having a full offseason to do that, I think he’s excited and it’s been going well for him,” he said.

Backstrom was back on the ice this summer to skate in Brynäs IF’s annual “Black and White” game and started participating in the Capitals’ informal skates in late August.

When it comes to what he has to prove, though, Backstrom had only one answer.

“Make the playoffs.”

Headline photo: Alan Dobbins/RMNB

The Washington Capitals officially opened Training Camp on Thursday as they took the ice for their customary skating test. The team then got in their first practices under new head coach Spencer Carbery and staff.

Group A players were the first to take the ice, giving us a first possible look at Carbery’s line combinations.

Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom were notably reunited on the first line, with Anthony Mantha joining them on the right wing to complete the trio.

Backstrom and Ovechkin could be seen running a battle drill against Alex Alexeyev and Ryan Hofer in the early stages of practice.

Ovechkin and Backstrom back together in some early drills pic.twitter.com/HnsSiBrVlX

— Katie Adler (@katieEadler) September 21, 2023

They were later joined by Mantha on a full line, backed by a defensive pair featuring Rasmus Sandin and John Carlson.

Looks like an Ovechkin-Backstrom-Mantha combo today pic.twitter.com/lxV8Dl8gBp

— Katie Adler (@katieEadler) September 21, 2023

“It’s awesome,” Backstrom said to RMNB’s Katie Adler afterward. “Obviously, it’s the start of Training Camp and everyone is mixing up and stuff but every time you get a chance to practice or play with Ovi it’s amazing. It feels like back in the day.”

The three forwards have rarely shared the ice together at five-on-five since Mantha was acquired from the Detroit Red Wings in 2021, seeing just 19:16 of ice time as a trio. Perhaps their most notable and sole official game together came in the playoffs during 2021.

In Game Five against the Boston Bruins, on the verge of elimination, head coach Peter Laviolette tinkered with his lineup and placed the three together. They went pointless in a 3-1 elimination loss.

Since then, Ovechkin has stuck primarily with his regular center Evgeny Kuznetsov, Backstrom has dealt with major hip-related injury issues, and Mantha has found himself on the outside of the lineup and in trade conversations.

Under Laviolette, when Ovechkin and Backstrom did play with one another at five-on-five, the results were not as positive as their early years together. In slightly under 387 five-on-five minutes together, the once dynamic duo saw just 43.5 percent of the shot attempts, 41.8 percent of the expected goals, 42.4 percent of the scoring chances, and 35.5 percent of the high-danger chances. The Caps were out-scored 22 to 19 in those minutes.

For comparison’s sake, within the same timeframe, Ovechkin skated over 1,554 minutes at five-on-five with Evgeny Kuznetsov. While still not posting the best rate stats with one another, the Caps did out-score opponents 87 to 71.

Mantha, in isolation, is a player in need of new life to be breathed into his career. The 28-year-old forward, is coming off perhaps his worst season in the NHL, seeing his points per game drop by more than a third (from 0.62 to 0.40) and being healthy scratched multiple times. The big winger told reporters at the Capitals’ Breakdown Day that he had hired a “mental coach” following the scratches and in a more recent interview committed to losing ten pounds to ensure a more productive 2023-24 campaign.

The weight loss is part of his strategy to have a major comeback year and earn a big deal next offseason in unrestricted free agency. “My personal goal is 60 points this year and then to sign a long-term contract somewhere,” Mantha said. “I must have a big season – this is the last year of my contract and I would like to bounce back. It’s practically a second chance after last season. I had other less good seasons in the NHL or AHL so I know how to come back strong.”

Carbery has been particularly candid about acknowledging the job ahead of him regarding Mantha. “I understand it’s my job to get the most out of Anthony Mantha and help him get there,” he said earlier this month. “It’s not like, ‘Okay, good luck. You need to do XYZ.’ I have to help him get there and have to help identify the situations where he’s doing a great job and where he’s not.”

A return to form for Mantha alongside Ovechkin and Backstrom — or even just giving Mantha some confidence skating beside the legends so early in camp — could earn him exactly what he’s seeking. And, Carbery could be betting on another return to form for Backstrom in the Swedish center’s first, full season back from hip resurfacing surgery to help make that happen.

Backstrom, in a recent radio interview, expressed his excitement about finally having a clean slate to start a year. “I’m really excited to be there from the start and be part of training camp,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ovechkin is just 72 goals shy of tying Wayne Gretzky for the most goals in NHL history. Finding a line combination that works for The Great Eight is one of Carbery’s primary responsibilities and he is aware of that.

“I’ve watched and seen his greatness up close indirectly,” Carbery said in June. “It’s my job as a head coach to put him in situations where he can be successful and that’s what my challenge is and I don’t take that lightly at all. That’ll work into how we play as a group. One of my focuses is how we put him in situations to succeed.”

Last season’s top two centers, Dylan Strome and Evgeny Kuznetsov, skated with Group B after Group A concluded.

Headline photo: Alan Dobbins/RMNB

Washington Capitals goaltending legend, Braden Holtby, attended the team’s first day of Training Camp at MedStar Capitals Iceplex.

The 2018 Stanley Cup champion was spotted taking in the skating session in the stands by RMNB’s Katie Adler, chatting with video coach Brett Leonhardt. He then made his way behind the benches as players from Group A, like Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom, left the ice.

It’s unknown why Holtby was there.

Holtby has not played since suiting up in 24 games with the Dallas Stars during the 2021-22 season. His last appearance came on March 4, 2022, as his campaign was ended early due to injury.

Holtby returned to the DC area shortly after. He did not play during the 2022-23 season at all and was considering retirement. When I exclusively spoke to Holtby at the Laughlin Family Foundation golf tournament in September 2022, Holtby said he was not yet ready to officially hang up his skates.

“Number one on my mind right now is getting some stability for my kids back in their life,” Holtby said then. “They’re at an age now where their life is more important than a hockey career. That’s number one.

“The last few years have been tough,” he added. “I’m getting old. I’m at a point where I’m not about to say one way or the other, but for me, I need to be more present in other things, and then maybe if the love of the game comes back somehow, then maybe, who knows? Right now I’m enjoying spending time with my family and doing some other stuff, too.”

Holtby has been spotted at Capital One Arena and at other Capitals related events since then. But it’s unclear what his next step will be.

Braden Holtby here at Caps practice & media day pic.twitter.com/iJFnwQClJk

— Sharla McBride (@SharlaMcBride) September 21, 2023

Photos: Katie Adler/RMNB

The Washington Capitals returned to the ice for their first on-ice session of 2023 Training Camp, Thursday. The team invited 63 players to camp, including 36 forwards, 20 defensemen and 7 goalies. But one player was notably missing.

Offseason acquisition, Max Pacioretty, did not attend the session at MedStar Capitals Iceplex. The Capitals did drills and conducted their annual skate/conditioning test.

According to the Washington Post’s Bailey Johnson, Paciorety was absent due to a previously-scheduled doctor’s appointment for his Achilles tendon.

Pacioretty is slated to miss the start of the season after tearing his Achilles tendon twice during his time with the Carolina Hurricanes. The star winger has been in the DC area since August rehabbing his injury.

The Capitals signed the six-time 30-goal scorer to a one-year, $2 million deal that included $2 million in achievable performance bonuses on the first day of free agency. He’ll receive $1 million if he plays 10 games, then another $500k for 15 games and another $500k for 20 games. He also received a no-movement clause from GM Brian MacLellan.

“I’m doing really well,” Pacioretty said of his injury in July after inking his deal. “I’m very comfortable with where I’m at right now. I don’t think I’ll be ready for the start of the season, but it shouldn’t be too long after when I’m expected to come back and play.”

Pacioretty initially tore his Achilles in his right leg in August 2022. Five months after he had surgery and rehabbed the injury, the left winger tore it again five games into his comeback with the Hurricanes during the 2022-23 season. Pacioretty hasn’t played in a game since January 19.

While the 34-year-old forward has only gotten into 44 games since the start of the 2021-22 season, he has tallied 22 goals and collected 40 points during that time, nearly a point-per-game rate.

The Capitals are hoping Patches will still have that same production if and when he returns to the team in the fall, potentially playing with Alex Ovechkin on the first line.

“I think when you look at the roster, there’s some obvious things that stick out,” he explained. “There’s at least three playmaking centermen and that’s always fun as a goalscorer–an expected goalscorer–to play with guys who want to distribute the puck. Ovi’s obviously the best goalscorer to ever play. I can learn a lot from him.”

The National Hockey League is so about to be back, y’all.

A majority of teams around the league held their Media Day on Wednesday as they prepare to kick off their respective training camps and preseasons. The teams and their media partners took videos and photos for future game broadcasts, promotional content, and in-game entertainment.

And, of course, players got up to some of their usual hijinks. Here are some of the best posts.

Seattle Kraken – Brandon Tanev’s newest headshot

babes wake up, new turbo headshot just dropped pic.twitter.com/kYSWXTzdZh

— Seattle Kraken (@SeattleKraken) September 20, 2023

Kicking things off with a classic.

Tanev has taken his official NHL photos like this every single year since 2015. In 2021, he claimed it’s because he’s literally seeing ghosts.

Pittsburgh Penguins – Kris Letang’s hidden artistic “talent”

Hello from Creative Day where we asked Kris Letang about his hidden talent…

Turns out he can draw Bugs Bunny! pic.twitter.com/xIFNTafwEt

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) September 20, 2023

The Pens and Letang seem very proud of this drawing which both claim to be of Bugs Bunny. To be fair to Letang, that probably is the best drawing an NHL player has ever done on a Media Day.

New Jersey Devils – Tyler Toffoli’s attempt at the Devils’ logo

Tyler, the Creator. pic.twitter.com/AHUt0r4G6X

— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) September 20, 2023

This is why we said what we said about Letang.

How can you even describe what Toffoli has put to paper here? Unless New Jersey is changing their logo to a very broken socket wrench, he is very lost.

Montreal Canadiens – Kirby Dach’s bucket hat

(っ◔◡◔)っ#GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/QXjDnvr5Ta

— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) September 20, 2023

Kirby Dach shares a name with the most annoying character to fight against in Super Smash, Nintendo’s pink ball hero Kirby. Dach referenced the connection by donning this pretty sweet Kirby bucket hat.

This one is also just a Nintendo-related excuse to remind everyone that TJ Oshie has a full-color Wario tattoo on his upper thigh.

Washington Capitals – Darcy Kuemper and Charlie Lindgren struggle

The Caps had select players play a game with a partner where one player has a contraption in their mouth that makes it hilariously hard to pronounce words. That player then had to say a phrase and their partner had to guess what they were saying.

Kuemper and Lindgren, the team’s netminding duo, got the phrase “purple bubbles”.

What a tendy moment #ALLCAPS | @Ticketmaster pic.twitter.com/y7LjAVVmBM

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) September 20, 2023

New York Rangers – The Breadman is now the Baldman

The next era. pic.twitter.com/3Jp3sbVTDS

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) September 20, 2023

Artemi Panarin looks very happy to no longer have hair. One less thing to worry about.

Toronto Maple Leafs – John Tavares gets cupcakes for his birthday

When your birthday is on marketing day pic.twitter.com/MFb9tPkdTj

— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) September 20, 2023

The sound of like three people in an empty room singing someone Happy Birthday is absurdist humor heaven.

There is also no chance he’s eating any of those.

Buffalo Sabres – Peyton Krebs does his best Marilyn Monroe

nothin' like a good old early-morning serenade pic.twitter.com/W7JmptIzEe

— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) September 20, 2023

The Sabres had Peyton Krebs sing his own rendition of Happy Birthday, where Krebs ad libs in “Mr. President” like he was Monroe singing to JFK.

Eric Comrie is the recipient of Krebs’ point during the song. Comrie’s birthday was over two months ago.

Philadelphia Flyers – Garnet Hathaway in orange and black

2023 Flyers Training Camp is in session! pic.twitter.com/1a6T7nrpSz

— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) September 20, 2023

This one isn’t funny, it’s just kinda gross.

Colorado Avalanche – Ryan Johansen’s spelling mishap

The new guys putting the 'COL' in too cool for school. #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/tHh9cC7XHK

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) September 20, 2023

The Avs had their offseason additions hold up first-day-of-school boards where they had to write down three things they love. Ryan Johansen attempted to write down pickleball but doesn’t know how to spell pickle correctly.

Happens to the best of us.

Nashville Predators – Ryan O’Reilly’s kinda horrifying fake tooth

https://t.co/4gullyXwoP pic.twitter.com/2HmLGZGrg3

— Nashville Predators (@PredsNHL) September 20, 2023

Ryan O’Reilly introduced himself to Preds fans by pulling out his fake tooth with his tongue and demonstrating why it would be hard for him to swallow it.

Not much more needs to be said.

St. Louis Blues – Blues play with their food

And the award for most chaotic station at Content Day goes to… pic.twitter.com/dCKm0fTlkL

— St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) September 20, 2023

Not sure what’s worse here. Not being able to guess that they were talking about potatoes or having to smell like potato salad for the rest of the day.

Arizona Coyotes – The Yotes are Down Under

When in Australia… @seandurzi is not a fan of kangaroos pic.twitter.com/7rgp0jg2fp

— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) September 20, 2023

The Coyotes are in Australia for an NHL preseason game. Defenseman Sean Durzi is apparently scared of kangaroos.

So, the team went and saw some kangaroos.

Vegas Golden Knights – Jonathan Marchessault fails at TikTok trend

The Golden Knights were given a popular TikTok trend where you receive your three “green flags” which are qualities people deem to be good signs about your character. The filter used gives them to you randomly and Marchessault did not seem to understand that aspect.

Nor, could he really read half of them due to just how Quebecois he is.

What’s your favorite and are there any good ones that we missed? Put your answers in the comments!

Screenshot via @Capitals/X

The Washington Capitals jumped on the ice at MedStar Capitals Iceplex on Wednesday for Media Day before the start of Training Camp.

The team’s goaltending duo of Darcy Kuemper and Charlie Lindgren showed off their new masks and sets of gear for the 2023-24 season.

Big first day of school vibes.

Clean and pristine #ALLCAPS | @Ticketmaster pic.twitter.com/925qa4GVSU

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) September 20, 2023

Kuemper, 33, made minor updates to his gear instead of making wholesale changes. Just like his first Caps mask, his bucket will feature the Screaming Eagle logo and a nod to the team’s wildly popular Reverse Retro jerseys. His number 35 is hand-painted on the chin and uses the font from the team’s mid-90s sweaters.

Photo: @Capitals

The biggest changes are found on the sides of the mask and backplate. Instead of the Capitals wordmark that outlined his mask last year, Kuemper now has the Weagle logo’s wings along the sides. The backplate details are now on a blue background rather than red. Kuemper explained last year what exactly the symbols stand for. “I have the shield of Saskatchewan which is my home province, the ‘for those I love’ that’s who I play for, and then I have the cancer ribbon for my uncle and a buddy with their initials on there.”

Photo: @Capitals

As for his gear, Kuemper updated the design of his new Vaughn pads slightly, inverting some of the color from his pillows last season.

Backup goaltender Charlie Lindgren now has a big white and blue Weagle head on the top of his mask. He has also updated the color and font of his nickname “Lindy.” The new typeface is more jagged and outlined in blue.

Photo: @Capitals

Kuemper and Lindgren are just two of seven total goaltenders attending at least the beginning of Training Camp. One of the additional netminders, Clay Stevenson, showed off his new Bauer pads on his Instagram Story. They appear to have a nod to the shape of the Weagle logo.

Stevenson is expected to spend the 2023-24 campaign as Hunter Shepard’s understudy with the Hershey Bears. The recent Rookie Camp attendee spent the majority of last year in the ECHL with the South Carolina Stingrays, posting a 19-12-4 record with a .916 save percentage and 2.54 goals-against average.

Headline photo: @Capitals/X

After a long five-month offseason, the Washington Capitals officially returned to the ice at MedStar Capitals Iceplex on Wednesday for the 2023-24 season.

Capitals players did their best hair poofs and beard trims as they put on their signature hockey equipment for photo and video shoots. The media will be used in promotional material this season.

Not only did Wednesday’s start of Training Camp symbolically mark Day 1 of the Spencer Carbery era in Washington, it also formally began Alex Ovechkin’s nineteenth season in the NHL.

The Capitals kicked off their social media coverage of the season with a picture of Ovi.

Season 1️⃣9️⃣ for the #Gr8#ALLCAPS | @Ticketmaster pic.twitter.com/5zEb7OZNO7

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) September 20, 2023

Rocking his signature yellow laces, Ovechkin, 38, can be seen clutching his CCM Ribcor Trigger ASY stick. His right glove continues to have an eye and the name Сергей custom stitched on it, a nod to his late older brother Sergey. He also looks like he’s about to check all of us through the glass.

During the shoot, Ovechkin also took photos with his comrade and sometimes centerman, Evgeny Kuznetsov, who remains with the team after the team shopped him over the summer.

Just smiling at these two#ALLCAPS | @Ticketmaster pic.twitter.com/aI0S47yWmS

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) September 20, 2023

Say cheese!

Media Day heat incoming#ALLCAPS | @Ticketmaster pic.twitter.com/kbRrNIbEkP

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) September 20, 2023

Ovechkin made his return to DC on September 5 after spending his summer in Russia. The 2023-24 campaign will mark Ovechkin’s third year of his current five-year contract that will take him through his age-40 season.

Heading into the year, Ovechkin sits second all-time on the NHL goals list with 822. The Russian sniper is 72 goals behind record-holder Wayne Gretzky. To tie The Great One, Ovechkin must average 24 goals per season during his remaining time in the NHL.

Over the summer, Ovechkin revealed that he was still dubious that he’d be able to reach Gretkzky’s mark, but was going to give it an honest try.

“I can’t predict how long it will take me to break Gretzky’s record,” Ovechkin said. “In every interview I’ve given over the past two years, someone is sure to ask about the record. Of course, I would like to do this. I once said that it is unrealistic. I still doubt that this is possible, but I will do my best to get close to this figure. Gretzky sincerely believes in me and expects this to happen. I think all the fans want it because it’s history. To be in this race is worth a lot.”

With the goals record unlikely this season, Ovechkin’s next big milestone will be points-related.

The Capitals’ first day of on-ice training will be Thursday.

That’s our guy#ALLCAPS | @Ticketmaster pic.twitter.com/J8yFUZjzQy

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) September 20, 2023

Headline photo courtesy of @Capitals/X

Monumental Sports Network, formerly known as NBC Sports Washington, announced their Capitals-related TV schedule for the 2023-24 season on Wednesday.

The regional channel will air 69 of the team’s 82 regular season matchups and five of their six preseason games.

That coverage begins on Sunday when the Caps square off with the Buffalo Sabres at Capital One Arena to open their preseason slate.

Joe Beninati, Craig Laughlin, and Al Koken will all be returning for the gameday broadcast while Alexa Landestoy and Alan May will continue their pre and postgame responsibilities.

Thirteen Caps games will air exclusively via national TV providers, including their season-opening Home Opener against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 13. That game will be live on ESPN+ and Hulu.

The full schedule is below.

Monumental Sports Network officially went live on September 20, exactly a year after the network was acquired by Monumental Sports & Entertainment.

For those that listen to the action on the radio, 106.7 The Fan (FM) is returning as the team’s flagship station while WFED 1500 AM and Caps Radio 24/7 will serve as their AM and online providers.

Here is the Capitals’ full release:

Capitals Announce 2023-24 Regional TV & Radio Schedule

Monumental Sports Network’s Live-Game Schedule Features 69 Regular-Season & 5 Preseason Matchups

106.7 The Fan Returns as Caps Radio Network Flagship Station, WFED 1500 AM and Caps Radio 24/7 to Serve as AM, Online Homes

ARLINGTON, Va. – Monumental Sports Network today announced its inaugural coverage of the Washington Capitals’ 2023-24 NHL season, highlighted by a 74-game schedule of live coverage, comprehensive gameday programs; and extensive multiplatform content on the new Monumental Sports Network app.

Monumental Sports Network will present live coverage of 69 of the Capitals’ 82 regular-season games and a five-game schedule of preseason contests, which begins Sunday, Sept. 24, versus Buffalo at 2 p.m. For the Capitals’ season-opening game on Friday, Oct. 13 versus Pittsburgh, which will air on ESPN+/Hulu, Monumental Sports Network will broadcast special pregame coverage featuring player interviews and analysis from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., as well as a post-game show following the game’s conclusion. Monumental Sports Network’s regular-season game coverage will start with the Capitals’ second game, Monday, Oct. 16, versus Calgary at 7 p.m.

Live-game coverage will again be led by Emmy Award-winning play-by-play announcer Joe Beninati and game analyst Craig Laughlin, who are entering their 27th consecutive season together in their respective roles. Al Koken will continue to provide exclusive in-game interviews and updates from ice level for Capitals home and road games.

Monumental Sports Network will include various live game enhancements in its coverage, including player mic-ups during several games across the season, point-of-view cameras positioned on announcers to capture the most dramatic calls, unique crash box camera angles positioned closer to the ice for a new look at live game action, behind-the-scenes and point-of-view cameras outside the Capitals’ locker-room for home games and wireless cameras throughout Capital One Arena to capture fan excitement and reactions.

Monumental Sports Network will surround Capitals games with live gameday programs Capitals Pregame Live and Capitals Postgame Live. The shows will provide news, analysis and commentary for a half hour before and one hour after games. The shows will be hosted by Alexa Landestoy and feature analysis from Alan May, with Beninati and Laughlin contributing to coverage. Brent Johnson and Koken will make regular appearances on the pregame and postgame programs throughout the season.

Monumental Sports Network’s live coverage, including pregame and postgame shows, will be available to authenticated TV subscribers on the platform’s new app. The app will also provide access to new, original programming produced by the Network such as Hometown with Rachel Nichols, which will tell the stories and show the personalities of the team’s players, coaches, and staff.

Comprehensive multimedia content covering the Capitals will continue to be provided across Monumental Sports Network’s digital properties. Exclusive news, analysis, commentary and information will be available daily by a team of multiplatform content creators.

As previously announced, the Capitals will have 14 nationally televised games, including six games on TNT, two games on ABC and four games on ESPN. In addition, five of Washington’s games will also be available on ESPN+, while two will be available on Hulu.

The Capitals Radio Network will provide live audio of every game this season. 106.7 The Fan, one of the region’s strongest radio signals, will again serve as the flagship station, with WFED 1500 AM and Caps Radio 24/7, the team’s 24-hour streaming audio channel, continuing as AM and online homes of the Capitals Radio Network, respectively. The Capitals Radio Network includes 14 different stations throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, from Pennsylvania to North Carolina. Play-by-play announcer John Walton will return for his 13th season calling the action, while former Capital Ken Sabourin enters his 21st season as analyst.

Capitals Radio Network coverage will include 15 minutes of pregame and 30 minutes of postgame coverage, highlighted by player interviews and live audio of head coach Spencer Carbery’s postgame press conference. The pregame and postgame shows will be hosted by Ben Raby.

Caps Radio 24/7 also streams live audio of select Hershey Bears and South Carolina Stingrays games, as well as Caps Talk. Caps Radio 24/7 also includes round-the-clock news updates, player interviews and music selected by players, coaches, fans and staff. Caps Radio 24/7 can be accessed, free of charge, via the Caps Mobile App radio button, the TuneIn radio app and online at CapsRadio24/7.com.

Headline photo: @craig_laughlin18/IG

NBC Sports Washington is now officially Monumental Sports Network, completing a full re-brand that began last year.

The Leonsis-led channel posted several videos on social media and sent out a long press release, explaining the changes and enhancements for the new sports seasons. In short: new graphics, new music, a new studio, new (and the return of some popular) programming, and new production techniques are coming,

For Capitals fans, there will be no changes to the talent lineup for broadcasts. Joe Beninati and Craig Laughlin will continue to do play-by-play while pregame shows will feature Alexa Landestoy and Alan May.

Monumental Sports Network posted several teaser videos on social media to celebrate officially going live, showing off some of its epic new music and graphics.

Monumental Sports Network is here!#TheGamesOn pic.twitter.com/CuDfhX0nY9

— Monumental Sports Network (@MonSportsNet) September 20, 2023

Another video tried to capture the spirit of being a sports fan in the district and the branding of the new network.

In D.C. we don't just watch sports, we witness moments that bring us together.

Your official home of the @Capitals, @WashWizards, and @WashMystics is here.#TheGamesOn: https://t.co/qXMenIYWXP pic.twitter.com/p1KIyAU95O

— Monumental Sports Network (@MonSportsNet) September 20, 2023

“In DC, we don’t just watch sports,” said the narrator, “we feel it deeply, personally, passionately. We go hard in the paint. We go hoarse. When we win, we don’t just raise a glass, we raise a Cup. We don’t climb light posts, we climb steps. In DC, we don’t just watch sports, we witness moments that bring us together as friends, as family, as a community. We go generations deep and spell greatness with an 8… In DC, we don’t just watch sports, we watch Monumental Sports Network.”

MSN announced in its press release that its new production plant and broadcast studio will be delivered by early 2024. It will be located next to Capital One Arena at Gallery Place. The facility will have two major league quality studios, which will also combine on non-conflict nights. There will be five control rooms to produce events simultaneously. Upgrades include the video quality jumping from 1080i (30 frames per second) to 1080p (60 frames per second).

Here’s a rendering of the upcoming studio.

“Since acquiring NBC Sports Washington one year ago to the day, we have spent every day since building what we believe will be the best local media experience for the greatest fans in all of sports,” Zach Leonsis said in a statement. “Our fans deserve the best experience possible, so we challenged ourselves to push every standard and deliver an extraordinary media platform. We’re excited to begin the network’s transformation this month with additional plans to unveil several significant upgrades throughout the course of the Capitals and Wizards regular seasons.”

He added, “While the local media ecosystem continues to evolve, we seek to build the exemplar local media platform in all of sports. The value of live sports rights continues to grow, which is why we are so confident in making these significant investments back into our local rights. We will do more with our live rights than ever before, upgrading the existing live experience, and producing more programming to the benefit of our fans and business partners. We look forward to debuting many more additional upgrades and enhancements throughout the NBA and NHL regular seasons.”

Former Capitals beat writer with the Washington Post, Rachel Nichols, will notably have a show on the network entitled “Hometown with Rachel Nichols” that will air every Thursday at 7pm ET. Nichols will interview local sports stars and celebrities including the Capitals’ Tom Wilson, Dylan Strome, and Trevor van Riemsdyk. The first episode will premier today and feature an interview with Ted and Zach Leonsis.

Want to know more? Read the full Monumental Sports Network press release below.

Monumental Sports Network Is Live for the Upcoming 2023-24 NBA and NHL Seasons

The rebranded linear television channel and digital streaming platform are integrated for a next-generation, unparalleled experience for Capitals, Wizards, Mystics, and Go-Go fans

Washington, D.C. – Sports fans across Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia have a brand-new way to watch their favorite games, athletes and other exciting content related to their hometown teams.

The linear channel is available at the same channel number where NBC Sports Washington was formerly found via Pay TV providers. Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE), the parent company which acquired the network in 2022, announced the rebranding in June of 2023, and it officially takes effect across all channel guides today.

“Since acquiring NBC Sports Washington one year ago to the day, we have spent every day since building what we believe will be the best local media experience for the greatest fans in all of sports,” said Zach Leonsis, President of Media & New Enterprises at Monumental Sports & Entertainment. “Our fans deserve the best experience possible, so we challenged ourselves to push every standard and deliver an extraordinary media platform. We’re excited to begin the network’s transformation this month with additional plans to unveil several significant upgrades throughout the course of the Capitals and Wizards regular seasons.”

About the New Digital Experience

The new digital platform provides fans with enhanced video functionality for live-streaming of games with authentication of their Pay TV credentials, on-demand viewing of original programming and game replays, exclusive behind the scenes content and more. Monumental Sports Network’s new digital presence is optimized across desktop, tablet, and mobile experiences. Users who had the previous Monumental Sports Network app downloaded on their digital devices will receive a new version of the app via a standard app update.

Additional features of the new digital experience include:

• Access to multiple camera angles during live games with additional functionality including the ability to rewind and watch in slow motion.
• Personalization features that tailor a user’s experience towards their favorite teams and players.
• Access to hundreds of hours of original behind-the-scenes programming, new shows including Hometown with Rachel Nichols and much more.
• Ability to watch Monumental Sports Network’s live, 24/7 linear feed on-the-go on multiple devices.
• Opt-in ability to receive score alerts, team and player updates, as well as a new Monumental Sports Network newsletter.
• Daily editorial and video clips covering the Capitals, Wizards, Mystics, and Go-Go which can be saved to a user’s list for later viewing.
• Sportradar integrations providing users with advanced, real-time sports data and betting analytics.
• Ticketmaster integration for ticket management and account linking.
• Consistent look and feel across all platforms, allowing for an intuitive experience across all devices.

Pay TV subscribers receive all these benefits for free by signing in with their TV Everywhere (TVE) credentials on Monumental Sports Network’s online and mobile platforms.

Monumental Sports Network partnered on these enhancements with ViewLift, a leading end-to-end digital platform developer providing OTT distribution solutions for content owners across multiple device platforms, including web, mobile, connected TV devices, smart TVs and gaming consoles, to design and develop the brand-new digital experience.

About the New Linear Experience

As of today, when fans tune into Monumental Sports Network, they will see a new look and feel alongside a brand-new programming grid.

New Branding: The logo — “Monumental M” – was designed with subtle nods to the Washington Monument in the composition of the logo, which is unique and authentic to D.C. Designed by renowned brand agency, HZ, the network’s name and brand identity underwent extensive testing which included thousands of season ticket members, causal sports fans and the broader regional community. The concept drew on the power of each sports team’s colors and identities and D.C.’s architecture, textures, and symbols were also used as inspirations throughout the brand iconography. See more on the design here.

New Programming:

“Hometown with Rachel Nichols”: Episodes air every Thursday at 7pm ET, officially premiering in October 2023.

Join award-winning journalist and sportscaster Rachel Nichols as she returns to her home of Washington, D.C. for an interview format series that will feature sports stars and celebrities. Early episodes will feature Monumental athletes and leaders, including Tom Wilson, Dylan Strome, Trevor van Riemsdyk, Michael Winger, Will Dawkins, Wes Unseld Jr., and Kyle Kuzma.

The first episode features Ted and Zach Leonsis and will air on the network today at 10:00am ET – rebroadcasting at 10:30am ET, 3:00pm ET, 3:30pm ET, 7:00pm ET and 7:30pm ET. It will also reair on Saturday, September 24th at 10:00am ET and 10:30am ET.

“Hershey Bears: Sweeter by the Dozen”: The American Hockey League 2023 Champions Documentary

Go behind the scenes for the historic 2023 Calder Cup Championship run with exclusive, never-before-seen interviews and moments with players and staff in this exclusive one-hour special. Get a crash course in the Hershey Bears’ rich history with a living legend and take a deep dive into the unique partnership between the Washington Capitals and this storied club, their passionate fan base, and their future in “the sweetest place on earth.” Hershey Bears: Sweeter by the Dozen premiered last week and will reair in the weeks leading up to the start of the Capitals’ 2023-24 regular season.

“Caps Red Line”: Premiered Monday, Sept. 18 at 5pm ET – reairs at the same time Monday – Friday

A new weekly series will highlight the best behind-the-scenes moments, off-ice stories with players, staff, and other Capitals fanatics stories, hosted by Alexa Landestoy.

“Beyond the Buzzer”: Premieres Monday, Sept. 25 at 4:30pm ET – reairs at the same time Monday – Friday

A new weekly series will feature the best behind-the-scenes moments, off-court stories with players, staff and other Wizards fanatics stories, hosted by Wes Hall.

“By the Book”: New Season Premiered Monday, Sept. 18 at 5:30pm ET – airs at 5:30pm ET Monday – Friday, with an immediate re-air from 6-6:30pm ET

In partnership with Caesars Sportsbook, Monumental Sports Network has re-launched the network’s marquee sports betting series for a fourth season. Highlights include in-depth analysis, a new studio, and cutting-edge graphics. Meg McDonald returns to the show, joined by new cohost, Sia Nejad.

“District Countdown”: Premiering in October 2023

Relive some of the most historic Capitals and Wizards moments with District Countdown. This program will count down the greatest moments in Monumental Sports history in this new format series. Early episodes include: Dynamic Duo: top moments in the partnership of Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom, and Wizards Big 3: highlights from the era of Gilbert Arenas, Caron Butler, and Antawn Jamison.

“Beltway Football”: Airing each weekend during the NFL season

The Beltway Football podcast is anchored by Monumental Sports Network’s JP Finlay alongside co-host Mitch Tischler. Each week they discuss the biggest topics around the NFL team with a fresh and engaging perspective on football around the nation’s capital.

Additional Network Assets

Fans can stay connected to every aspect of the new experience through a full suite of services.

New Digital Properties: The digital experience is available on desktop, mobile, tablet, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV. It features all the live programming, on-demand game replays and TV episodes, and exclusive behind-the-scenes digital content.

New Social Channels: Follow us at @MonSportsNet on X, Instagram, Meta, TikTok, and YouTube.

New Paid Media Campaign: Monumental Sports Network is partnering with Gupta Media to launch its first-ever ad campaign and will be seen in print, online and out-of-home boards around the D.C., Maryland and Virginia region.

New Visuals Inside Capital One Arena: Fans attending games and events can expect to see Monumental Sports Network signage around the venue as well as on the court and ice during game intermissions.

New Fan Engagement Opportunities: Check out the “Rock the Red Carpet” event during the Capitals Opening Night on October 13 where Monumental Sports Network will provide live coverage and host a station for fans to win fun prizes. Throughout the Capitals and Wizards seasons, Monumental Sports Network will host watch parties for fans throughout the DMV.

New Digital Newsletter: Sent three times a week, the Network’s newsletter will keep fans up to date on the latest programming, as well as a roundup of the best digital content from our network and our teams.

New Broadcast Studio to Be Delivered this Winter

Monumental Sports Network is also building a brand-new production plant and broadcast studio, set to be delivered by early 2024 – located right next to Capital One Arena, at Gallery Place. This two-story, SMPTE 2110 facility will feature two major league quality studios which can also combine on non-conflict nights to create one single regional telecast worthy experience. The facility will also feature two insert studios and five control rooms to produce multiple events simultaneously.

Upon the opening of the new production plant and studios, Monumental Sports Network plans to upgrade its video quality from 1080i (shooting at 30 frames per second) to 1080p (shooting at 60 frames per second) so fans can enjoy their favorite live and original programs in stunning HD. The new facility is also built to upgrade its video quality to 4K in the future. In addition, Monumental Sports Network will plan to pursue its alternate telecast strategy upon the opening of the new facility. Further announcements will be made this winter.

“While the local media ecosystem continues to evolve, we seek to build the exemplar local media platform in all of sports. The value of live sports rights continues to grow, which is why we are so confident in making these significant investments back into our local rights,” continued Leonsis. “We will do more with our live rights than ever before, upgrading the existing live experience, and producing more programming to the benefit of our fans and business partners. We look forward to debuting many more additional upgrades and enhancements throughout the NBA and NHL regular seasons.”

For more information:

Channel finder: To find the channel, reference the appropriate service provider to locate Monumental Sports Network at Comcast/Xfinity, Cox, DirecTV, FuboTV, Hulu, Mediacom, Optimum, RCN or Spectrum, Verizon, YouTube TV, or your other distributor’s website.
Sign-up for the newsletter: Automatically enroll when you create a Monumental Sports Network account.
Follow social media channels: X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok

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About Monumental Sports Network

Monumental Sports Network is wholly-owned and operated by Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE). The network holds exclusive local television media rights for the NHL’s Washington Capitals, NBA’s Washington Wizards and WNBA’s Washington Mystics games. Monumental Sports Network is also the TV and digital home to the NBA G League’s Capital City Go-Go and the NBA 2K League’s Wizards District Gaming as well as exclusive behind-the-scenes content and original sports and entertainment programming. The network also boasts the most comprehensive regional high-school and regional collegiate Division II-and-under sports programming in the greater Washington D.C. metro area. For more visit: http://www.monumentalsportsnetwork.com

Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos will enter his 16th season in the NHL not at peak optimism with his team.

The two-time Stanley Cup champion is in the final season of an eight-year, $68 million deal that has a cap hit of $8.5 million. The two-time Rocket Richard winner wanted to wrap up a new extension over the summer.

Instead, there’s been crickets from the other side.

https://x.com/jeffmarek/status/1704487371540963676

“To be honest, I’ve been disappointed in the lack of talk in that regard,” Stamkos said. “It was something I expressed at the end of last year to get something done before Training Camp started and there haven’t been any conversations so…”

Stamkos was then asked if he would talk contract during the season. He shrugged.

“I’m ready whenever,” he replied. “I guess that was something I didn’t see coming. It is what it is.”

There’s no denying Stamkos’s importance and production to Tampa still at age 32. After struggling with injury in the years prior, Stamkos rebounded with a career-high 106-point season in 2021-22 and 84 points in 2022-23.

Any new deal for the two-time 50-goal scorer though is likely complicated by where he’s at in his career and any possible age-related regression that may reveal itself. The Lightning may also want to consider getting younger after being eliminated in the first round of the playoffs last season by the Toronto Maple Leafs and finishing third in the Atlantic Division during the regular season (98 points). Seeing how the campaign plays out may be important to team brass before they make a decision on the future Hall of Famer.

Then there’s the Bolts’ continuing juggling of the salary cap, too. As of today, the Lightning are nearly $6.9 million over the cap, per Cap Friendly, as they head into the 2023-24 season. Though that is mostly a wash due to Brent Seabrook. The defenseman’s $6.875 salary will be able to be buried on long-term injured reserve after he effectively retired in 2021.

What the Lightning decide with Stamkos will likely go a long way in determining how competitive they are in the years to come. Will they want to hold onto their aging core like the Washington Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins recently did? Or could some hard decisions be upcoming so they can remain a championship contender?

Screenshot: Tampa Bay Lightning

The Washington Capitals hired Mitch Love as the first member of new head coach Spencer Carbery’s staff in late June. Love, the reigning two-time AHL coach of the year, departed the Calgary Flames organization and has made his way east to DC.

But, his stay in the nation’s capital could be a short one. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman is already bringing up Love’s name for potential head coaching vacancies come 2024.

The topic of conversation was sparked by Friedman after the recent news of Mike Babcock being ousted in Columbus before coaching a single game. Babcock resigned after he asked players to share photos from their personal phones during one-on-one meetings.

Assistant coach Pascal Vincent has taken over as Columbus’ new head coach and Vincent was seen as a prime candidate to be potentially poached from Columbus next offseason as he has been very close to a head coaching job in the past. With a potential name now likely coming off that list, Friedman says he has turned his attention to Love.

“This also makes me wonder about two-time AHL Coach of the Year Mitch Love,” Friedman writes in his most recent 32 Thoughts column. “Now on Spencer Carbery’s bench in Washington, at least five teams asked to talk to him after Calgary elevated Ryan Huska to the number one spot. Maybe 2024 is The Summer of Love.”

Love was considered a “prized AHL coach” when the Caps plucked him from the AHL. In the past two seasons, he has led the Stockton Heat and Calgary Wranglers to a combined record of 96-33-11. Before his pro success though, Love cut his teeth in the WHL as an assistant coach with the Everett Silvertips for six seasons and as head coach of the Saskatoon Blades for three seasons.

He was also an assistant for Team Canada at two straight World Juniors (2020, 2021) where he helped the team capture a gold and silver medal.

Although his closest past ties to current Caps come in the form of forwards Matthew Phillips (AHL), Connor McMichael (Team Canada), and Riley Sutter (WHL), Love’s primary responsibility with the Caps will be leading the team’s defensemen. He spoke a little about getting that process started in his introductory media availability in June, particularly keying in on young blueliners Rasmus Sandin, Martin Fehervary, and Alex Alexeyev.

“I’ve watched bits and pieces of their game later in the season when I was going through this process to get my bearings under me on the defense there in Washington,” Love started. “They’re young players. Some have played 150 NHL games. In Alexeyev’s case he’s played 33. They’re still young and being a defenseman in pro hockey in the NHL it takes some time and maturing. It’s a tough position.

“We’ll put together a bit of a plan in terms of how we teach, how we work in practice, making sure our habits are in a good spot, and process throughout the year,” he continued. “Once we get together and I get to know them and they get to know me in terms of how we’re going to have that working relationship. I’m excited to watch their growth within the Capitals organization.”

If Love were to only last a short time behind the bench in DC, his journey would continue to closely mirror that of Carbery’s.

Carbery, a former Canadian major junior coach in his own right, turned his own short but very successful head coaching stint in the AHL into an NHL assistant job with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2021. The last coach other than Love to win AHL coach of the year was Carbery for his 2020-21 campaign with the Hershey Bears.

Carbery lasted just two seasons in Toronto before the Caps organization came calling again, this time to replace Peter Laviolette at the highest level. Love seems to be heading down that same path.

Screenshot via Capitals

The Washington Capitals announced their 63-man roster ahead of the start of their 2023 Training Camp on Thursday.

The roster consists of 36 forwards, 20 defensemen, and seven goalies. The players will be initially broken up into three separate squads (Group A, Group B, and Group C) for skates on varying schedules.

Here’s a look at who exactly will be in attendance via the team’s Instagram account. This will be the group’s first full camp under new head coach Spencer Carbery and the rest of his staff.

The main note of interest is that Max Pacioretty, who the Caps signed to a one-year, $2 million in unrestricted free agency this summer, is listed as injured and will start the preseason on the injured reserve. Pacioretty stated to the media in July that he did not believe he would be ready for the Capitals’ season opening matchup with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

“I’m doing really well,” he said then. “I’m very comfortable with where I’m at right now. I don’t think I’ll be ready for the start of the season, but it shouldn’t be too long after when I’m expected to come back and play.”

Nicklas Backstrom is healthy and fully ready to go for a camp that Caps general manager Brian MacLellan said would be very pivotal for the veteran Swede. Backstrom is now over a year removed from the hip resurfacing surgery that kept him out of half of last season and affected his level of play when he did return.

“We’ve had a couple conversations about where he is health-wise,” MacLellan said in early June. “I think he’s deserved a chance to see what he can do in the offseason and come into camp and see where he’s at health-wise. It’s a major surgery, so I don’t know that anybody knows exactly where he’s going to be.”

New names who could play at any of the three pro levels of the Capitals organization (NHL, AHL, ECHL) include Pierrick Dube, Jimmy Huntington, Alex Limoges, Matthew Phillips, Garrett Roe, Joel Edmundson, Hardy Haman Aktell, Nick Leivermann, Jon McDonald, Chase Priskie, and Colin Swoyer. 2023 Training camp will mark their first official appearances at MedStar Capitals Iceplex.

The team also provided the schedule for the first six days of camp.

According to the team, this year’s Training Camp will last 21 days. The Caps will play six preseason games against four different opponents, starting on September 24 at home against the Buffalo Sabres. Opening Night for the regular season is also at home on October 13 against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Headline photo: Cara Bahniuk/RMNB

Annapolis, MD — The Washington Capitals held their final day of Rookie Camp at McMullen Hockey Arena on Tuesday.

Top prospects like Ivan Miroshnichenko, Hendrix Lapierre, Vincent Iorio, Alexander Suzdalev, and Andrew Cristall participated in the four-day event, which saw the young stars not only work on their on-ice skills, but team-build off of it at the US Naval Academy.

The prospects took the ice shortly after 9 am on Tuesday morning with the the team’s coaching staff that includes former Capitals Olie Kolzig and Brooks Orpik.

Kolzig and company ran drills with the goalies before practice. The players did breakaways, board battles, close quarters 3-on-3, and 1-on-1 break-in drills during the full session.

Once the skate was over, the tired group of players signed some autographs for the fans who made the trek to see them.

Caps play-by-play announcer Joe Beninati made an appearance in Annapolis and used the opportunity to double check the pronunciations of the new players’ names ahead of the preseason — though he ran into a bit of a figurative wall with Alexander Suzdalev. The talented forward said his name to Beninati, but then told the decorated announcer that “you can say it any way you want.” This was not good enough for Beninati, a noted perfectionist who is very respectful of the players. The cycle repeated a few times until the two of them jokingly put their dukes up.

The team did multiple team-building events through its three days in Annapolis, receiving a long tour of the Naval Academy on Monday night.

The boys took the scenic route in Annapolis after practice today, enjoying an educational tour on campus.

Big thanks to the @NavalAcademy for the hospitality!#ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/u2htLjJ4wI

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) September 19, 2023

The Capitals’ trip to Navy was its first since playing in the 2018 Stadium Series Game against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

While many teams across the league participated in tournaments for their Rookie Camps, the Capitals decided to limit the chance of injury as many of the players will see a majority of their development happen while playing on junior teams across North America.

McMullen Hockey Arena first opened in 2007 and became the new home for Navy Hockey after previously playing at the historic Dahlgren Hall, a former Navy armory. The facility hosts the annual Crabpot Tournament, which includes Navy and other local universities like Towson, Maryland, and UMBC.

The facility is part of the Brigade Sports Complex that also has a tennis arena and the Naval Academy golf course on its campus. The venue is located right on the water just a couple minutes from the historic downtown, the Maryland State House, and the beautiful marina.

Photos

Tom Wilson and Sidney Crosby have been on opposite sides of the heated Capitals vs Penguins rivalry for a decade at this point. The two ultra-competitive NHLers don’t share much in common on the ice in terms of playing style but it turns out they do off of it.

The two revealed their shared hobby to ESPN’s Kristen Shilton and Greg Wyshynski at the recent NHL Player Media Tour.

“What’s your favorite off-day activity?”, the two Metropolitan Division foes were asked.

“I like anything outdoors,” Crosby answered. “Hiking, kayaking, fishing. Lake kayaking. I don’t mess with the ocean too much. [Laughs] I really enjoy that. It’s a good way for me to stay active, but I love being in nature, be on the water, and things like that, so if I get an opportunity to do that, it’s great.”

While Crosby has managed to keep his off-the-ice personal life almost completely private during his storied 18-year NHL career, his love for the outdoors is something he has been comparatively open about.

Crosby owns a lakefront property in rural Nova Scotia and when he’s in his home province, he’s more likely to be seen driving around a Chevy Tahoe than any sort of flashy sports car. According to a 2015 TribLIVE article, Crosby’s summer home is located off a dirt road and a stone walkway leads from his back patio to a 14-kilometer lake.

“You can see the chain pickerel coming 10 feet away,” Crosby said then when asked about the fishing in the lake. “Being here definitely allows me to get away, be somewhere where I’m pretty comfortable, whether it be with surroundings or the people, that kind of thing.”

Throwback to Sidney Crosby's very short (but relaxing) summer.

Thanks for the awesome video, @CCMHockey! pic.twitter.com/vz4I2n8O32

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) November 2, 2016

Tom Wilson was up next.

“Go to the dog park or go on a bit of a hike with the dog,”the Capitals winger said. “There’s some great trails in Virginia where we live so that’s always good to clear your mind.”

Tom, his wife Taylor, and their adorable pup Halle can regularly be seen enjoying the outdoors on all three’s Instagram profiles. And, yes, Halle has her own Instagram.

Wilson is also an avid water-goer, pictured here paddling away with Halle in September 2020.

So, while the two can frequently be seen butting heads on the ice, it sounds like they might enjoy each other’s company off of it. The two were recently pictured being friendly with one another at the very same event where the answers to these questions were gathered.

While Crosby expressing his love for the outdoors may make him finally feel like a human being to some, his answer to another question was very much more on brand. When asked what rule he’d like to see added to the NHL, the 36 year old waxed poetic about the long-gone and archaic two-line pass rule.

“I just want to see it: Bringing the red line back,” Crosby said. “Would just love to see how that would affect the game. You knew when it was there, there’s a ton of trapping and all that sort of thing, but it would just be a totally different game today. I think it would force you to have to make a few more passes.”

The two-line pass rule was utilized in the league from 1943 to 2005 and would result in play being blown dead when a puck was passed from a team’s defensive zone to a player on the opposing side of the center red line. Good defensive teams, think late 90s to early 00s New Jersey Devils, would exploit this rule and slow the game down to a snail’s pace. In short, it resulted in a whole lot of games with three or less total goals.

Stick to the bass fishing and paddleboarding, Sid.

Headline Photo: @Capitals/X

Mike Babcock resigned from the Columbus Blue Jackets without having coached a single game. And all because he looked through somebody’s phone.

There are people, presumably boomers, who think it was an overreaction to essentially fire a head coach just for looking through somebody’s phone. “These boys today,” they say, probably. “They’re too soft, too woke. And they all have that perm front-puff hairstyle. What’s the big deal with going through someone’s phone?”

The big deal is you don’t go through someone’s phone. You just don’t do it.

When journalists or people with sensitive information are traveling, they’re encouraged to disable fingerprint and face identification features on their phones. That way, unauthorized people can’t get access to all that sensitive information without a passcode. At the same time, a growing amount of case law says that the Fifth Amendment prevents law enforcement from forcing you to unlock your phone. Which is all to say that there’s private stuff on your phone — even if you’re not a hotshot journalist, intrepid whisteblower, or petty criminal.

Your phone is packed with stuff you might not want to share. It’s your personal diary, your ledger, your wall-safe hidden behind your oil painting of a sailboat. Let’s imagine a fake person. Let’s call him Not Peter Hassett. On Not Peter Hassett’s phone, you may find:

• Poems
• DMs with journalists about team gossip
• Unflattering, personal photos of Not Peter
• Unflattering, personal photos of people not Not Peter
• Photos of Not Peter drinking alcohol with timestamps
• Photos that suggest a hidden gender identity or sexual behavior
• A list of medications Not Peter takes
• Log of late-night videochats with a person who is not Not Peter’s partner
• Venmo transactions for anti-establishment political organizating
• Venmo transaction to some guy for the gummies Not Peter took at the Death Cab concert
• Amazon purchase history that suggests Not Peter had a nasty rash last spring
• A history of consistently liking some hot person’s Instagram photos going back like eight years
• Password for Netflix, shared with Not Peter’s mom over messages
• Password for Apple Plus, shared by college roommate over messages
• Password for Peacock, just kidding, no one uses Peacock
• Group chat logs with old friends who won’t stop talking about some event from 15 years ago mysteriously called the diaperditarod

Sharing some of of these things could be funny. Sharing some of these things could be mildly embarrassing. Some could be harassment. Some could be crimes. Ted Lasso understood this:

Having this information requested and seen by a person who has power over you, like the head coach of your professional sport team, transforms the dynamic. We like to imagine coaches as mentors who benevolently mold the character of young people. That was true for me, but it can be different at the pro level, where the coach is also the person who can determine if your career ends at $500 a week in the QMJHL or if you’ll make $30 million by the time you’re thirty, like Boone Jenner did. Jenner was rich and secure when he said the Babcock situation was “blown out of proportion.” That’s a fine perspective for an individual to have, but it’s one that doesn’t take into account the material concerns and power dynamics at play.

From a position of power, Babcock made players feel precarious. It’s the same thing he did in 2017, when he asked then-rookie Mitch Marner to confidentially rank his teammates by their levels of effort — and then shared the list with those named players. Babcock has a pattern of using the leverage of his power to make his subordinates feel insecure. Real R. Lee Ermey drill sergeant stuff.

And this is essentially what Columbus Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen wanted when he hired Babcock. In May, a former coach told The Athletic’s Aaron Portzline that the Blue Jackets “were looking for a coach who isn’t afraid of players.” They got it. They got a coach who makes players afraid instead. Babcock’s reputation for being domineering was under his ‘pros’ column, not the ‘cons.’ This week Kekalainen himself sanctioned Babcock’s behavior, telling the press, “personally I had no problem with it, but I can understand that it could put somebody in an uncomfortable and awkward situation.”

Back in May, Portzline said that hiring Babcock was an indication of “how much risk [the Blue Jackets were] willing to assume to get this hire right.” They did not get the hire right. It flamed out in scandal before even one game was played — but this was what Jarmo invited when he hired a toxic guy to do a job toxically. He thinks the problem was in the feelings, the awkwardness, the discomfort — not the bullying.

“I do not believe there were any ill intentions on Mike’s part in the way he conducted interviews with our players to get to know them,” Kekalainen told the press on Monday. “However, whether there was intent or not, some of our players weren’t comfortable with his methods and that was concerning.”

Meanwhile, team president John Davidson seems to see it differently. “We got [the hiring] wrong and that’s on us,” Davidson said. There seems to be a gap between how the president and the general manager see the situation. One owns the mistake, the other is determined to keep proudly stomping on the same rake over and over again. He doesn’t get it, and he never will. You just don’t go through somebody’s phone.

Headline photo: Warner Bros, Columbus Blue Jackets/YouTube

Rasmus Sandin had a whirlwind 2022-23 season. He started the year as a bottom pairing (and sometimes extra) defenseman with the Toronto Maple Leafs and finished the campaign with the Washington Capitals, playing in the top four and averaging nearly 23 minutes of ice time.

Sandin was the first example of the Caps prioritizing the acquisition of younger players over more veteran, rental-type additions when he was brought in from the Leafs for a first-round pick and Erik Gustafsson. The 23-year-old smooth-skating blueliner got into 19 total games with the team and recorded an impressive 15 points (3g, 12a).

Now, after having time to settle, Sandin says he can see himself staying in DC for the long term. He has one year remaining on his contract ($1.4 million AAV) before becoming a restricted free agent.

“I love the city. It feels like it has everything a player wants,” Sandin told Swedish NHL.com’s Peter Ekholm and as translated by Google Translate. “The organization is awesome, the teammates are awesome, and the fans are really good. Everything was just fantastic there. I can definitely see myself there for a long time to come.”

A large reason why Sandin was able to adjust to his new team and new city so quickly was the presence of legendary Caps center Nicklas Backstrom. Backstrom acted as Sandin’s personal icebreaker on a team where he had no other familiar faces to help guide him.

That was evidenced on-ice by Sandin’s historic production in his first several games with the Caps and off the ice as it took him just five games to pick up on some of the unique quirks around the team like “Red” being shouted during the national anthem at Capital One Arena.

“For me personally, when I came to Washington, he was the only one I knew and I barely knew him,” Sandin said. “But, he was the one I was somewhat familiar with. He introduced me to everyone on my first day. He meant a lot to me.”

Backstrom had a rough year from a personal standpoint, missing a slew of games as he recovered from hip resurfacing surgery and never really looking up to speed even after returning. Sandin has faith that number 19 can turn it all around this upcoming season.

“I absolutely believe he can have a good season,” Sandin said. “Last season was of course tough for him, with the surgery and all. Everyone knows how good Nick is. He played me to a few chances last year that I could have scored on and I thought ‘not a chance he sees me here’, and then he puts a great backhand pass through two guys and you basically get an open goal. He will be very important.”

Sandin started his career as a Caps player under head coach Peter Laviolette but will now continue it under a more familiar face in Spencer Carbery. Carbery was an assistant coach in Toronto for the past two seasons, Sandin’s first two full years in the NHL.

“The times I worked with Carbs in Toronto were during power play meetings and such,” Sandin said. “He was very good at getting the best out of each individual and working as a unit. So, I think [his hiring] will be very good for us.”

Under Laviolette last season, the Caps missed the playoffs for the first time since the 2013-14 campaign and clinched their worst full, 82-game season in 16 years. With Carbery not at the helm, Sandin believes the Caps can make a return to the postseason.

Sandin only got into five total playoff games with Toronto and given the Leafs’ well-known postseason troubles, has never been part of a series-winning team.

“I think we have good qualities in the dressing room,” Sandin said. “The people we have in the dressing room mean a lot to us. The players here are really, really good. We have to have a bit of luck, a bit of faith, and I really think we’ll make the playoffs this year.”

This past summer, Sandin skated with Team Sweden at the World Championships. The Caps received a bit of a scare when Sandin was labeled by a hard, knee-on-knee hit from Team USA’s Michael Eyssimont and hobbled to the Swedish locker room.

Sandin did not return to that game and then limped off the ice at Sweden’s next practice, ending his tournament prematurely. Luckily, the damage done was not serious and Sandin is already back in DC, skating in the team’s informal practices before Training Camp opens.

Headline photo: Katie Adler/RMNB

Alexander Suzdalev is one of the most exciting prospects in the Washington Capitals’ organization and due to that, there has been plenty of talk about where he’ll be playing his hockey this upcoming season. The two most likely destinations for the 19-year-old forward are either heading back to junior for another year in the WHL with the Regina Pats or turning pro and playing in the AHL with the Hershey Bears.

Capitals assistant general manager and prospect guru Ross Mahoney discussed the plan for the Russian-born, Swedish-raised winger in Annapolis on Sunday where the Caps are holding the majority of this year’s Rookie Camp.

According to Mahoney, as things currently stand, the plan is for Suzdalev to make the jump this year and play against men in the AHL with the Bears. That decision is being made in part due to how impressive a summer of training the teenager had.

“He had a really good year last year in Regina,” Mahoney said. “I think he had 80-some points. He actually trained really hard over the summer too. He’s probably made one of the biggest improvements strength wise. He’s put on some really good weight. Muscle, which he needs to.

“We’d like to see him [in the AHL]. That’s the plan, but we’ll see how everything works out. It’s up to him. I always say [that] these kids come in and where they end up is up to them. Make it difficult on the coaches.”

Suzdalev recorded 86 points (38g, 48a) in 66 games for Regina last season. That total saw him ranked first among all WHL rookies in scoring, besting the next-highest scorer by 28 points. Over the full course of the season, he had seven games with at least three points. He then added 10 more points (3g, 7a) in 10 playoff games.

During Hershey’s successful run to the franchise’s 12th Calder Cup title, Suzdalev was called up to be black ace for the Bears and got a front-row seat to their wild and victorious run.

After being named to the league’s All-Rookie Team and win WHL Rookie of the Month honors on three separate occasions, Suzdalev was left off Regina’s Training Camp roster this preseason. Perhaps, a signal that an AHL move has always been the main plan.

Suzdalev told Monumental Sports Network’s Matt Weyrich that he changed his diet to get bigger after getting tips from the Caps’ nutritionist and “picking up some habits” from Pats teammate Connor Bedard. Bedard’s mom told NHL.com last March that the super phenom has never eaten fast food in his life.

Bedard, the 2023 first overall draft selection and supposed generational talent had some very nice things to say about Suzdalev at the recent prospect showcase held at MedStar Capitals Iceplex.

“I love him,” Bedard said. “It’s not easy to come over from Europe and adjust, but he just got better every game. He was one of the best players in the league.”

That sort of praise is shared by Mahoney but he adds that Suzdalev’s work to improve the physical side of his game is not yet done.

“He’s a really smart player and you watch him shoot the puck out here today and he’s got a really good shot,” Mahoney said. “But, it was a little light. [We want him to get] a little bit stronger [so he’ll] be better at holding position in front of the net for deflections or winning more puck battles in the corners. Those sort of things. He’s always had the skating and the skill and the sense but he was a little bit light, a little bit thin.”

Earlier in his media availability Mahoney also pointed out that Suzdalev fluently speaks Russian, English, and Swedish. The first two coming in very handy when helping fellow 2022 Caps draft pick Ivan Miroshnichenko navigate North America.

The two, alongside Bogdan Trineyev, struck up quite the friendship during July’s development camp. Mahoney says that trio relationship is a mutually beneficial one even if it seems like Miroshnichenko needs it more than the other two.

“It’s good for Trineyev and Suzdalev to take on a little bit of a leadership role and help a teammate out,” Mahoney said. “So, I think that’s good experience for them. We always look at the Miro side of it where people are helping him with English but I think that helps the other guys too. It gives them a little more responsibility and leadership.”

If Suzdalev and the Caps stick to their plan of him heading to Hershey for the 2023-24 campaign, the young forward’s work will have just started. The Bears have fully reloaded and are stacked as they prepare to defend their championship, meaning Suzdalev will have to battle for every minute he gets.

Hershey has already signed or re-signed forwards Tyson Empey, Jimmy Huntington, Matthew Strome, Julian Napravnik, Riley Sutter, and Garrett Roe to go along with Caps tweener signings Pierrick Dube, Matthew Phillips, and Alex Limoges. That logjam does not even include names like Trineyev, Miroshnichenko, Michael Sgarbossa, Mike Vecchione, Hendrix Lapierre, Joe Snively, Ethen Frank, and Henrik Rybinski.

Bears head coach Todd Nelson has been helping run Rookie Camp so he’ll have gotten a great look at Suzdalev and the rest of his peers before Hershey’s Training Camp and preseason begins. Suzdalev will be hoping to make Nelson make some very hard choices come October.

Headline photo: Katie Adler/RMNB

NHL enforcer Ryan Reaves signed a three-year, $4.05 million contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs this offseason. The Leafs are seeking to become a harder team to play against in the playoffs, so they picked up Reaves, who famously sat in the press box and watched his Vegas Golden Knights team lose the 2018 Stanley Cup Final to the Washington Capitals.

The Leafs were eliminated in the second round of last year’s postseason in five games by the Florida Panthers. In their final loss, Nick Cousins beat netminder Joseph Woll, who was being screened by Radko Gudas, to send Florida to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Gudas famously celebrated directly in Woll’s face after the puck went in. Reaves responded to that celebration and in typical Reaves form, lightly threatened Gudas in the process.

Ryan Reaves, who says he’ll be a loud presence in the room, was asked about what he can do on the ice. And asked about preventing incidents like this: “I’d like to see him try it. It would be fun” pic.twitter.com/lE1rtYtYBM

— David Alter (@dalter) September 18, 2023

The full quote comes from Reaves’ media availability at the Toronto’s annual golf tournament on Monday.

“Oh, I hope [Gudas] tries that,” Reaves said. “I think it’d be interesting, it would be fun. I doubt there’s going to be any of that here.”

Reaves has long been a big talker in the media about his ability to stymie other teams’ more physical players. He once reportedly claimed to a team that he was “the solution to your Tom Wilson problem”.

The big winger was acquired by the New York Rangers after Wilson’s Horrifying Act of Violence game, but never ended up fighting Wilson before being dealt out of The Big Apple to the Minnesota Wild last November.

Reaves’ signing was just one of a few that Toronto made to try and make their lineup more battle-tested and ready for the grind that is an NHL playoffs. New Leafs general manager Brad Treliving also brought in noted pests Tyler Bertuzzi and Max Domi in unrestricted free agency.

“They both have a lot of skill, too,” Reaves added. “But maybe something this team has been missing is a little bit of grit and I think those guys fit the mood of what we need here. They’re exactly what was needed, for sure.”

The Leafs are the latest team to add Reaves to their roster to try and help them take another step in the playoffs despite Reaves never having won a Stanley Cup. In fact, he has been suspended as many playoff games (3) as he has scored playoff goals in his 13-year career. In 108 total career playoff games, Reaves has tallied just eight points (3g, 5a) while also serving a whopping 114 penalty minutes.

By comparison, Tom Wilson has won a Stanley Cup and tallied 15 points (5g, 10a) alone during that successful 2018 postseason.

Screenshot via Toronto Maple Leafs/YouTube