Photo: @bbholtby
His reign in Washington has sadly come to an end. Braden Holtby signed a two-year deal with the Vancouver Canucks on Friday, ending his 10-year stay in the nation’s capital. We knew it was coming, but it is still a hefty blow to Caps Nation.
Following the announcement made by the Vancouver Canucks, the Capitals released an official statement from general manager Brian MacLellan that included a message to Braden:
“We want to thank Braden Holtby for his many contributions to the Washington Capitals. Braden has built a legacy both on and off the ice that will have a lasting impact on our organization and on our community. Winning the Vezina Trophy in 2016, the Jennings Trophy in 2017 and helping the team win the Stanley Cup with his stellar play in 2018 cements his position as one of the best goalies of his era. Off the ice, he led by example and consistently made a positive impact across several important initiatives. We wish him and his family all the best moving forward.”
It was also announced on Friday that the Capitals signed former New York Rangers netminder Henrik Lundqvist to a one-year deal. Lundqvist played 15 seasons with the Rangers before he was bought-out earlier this month.
The two signings truly mark the end of an era in Washington.
We are collectively less without Braden and his family living in our community. As Mac noted in his statement, Braden and his family have left nothing but positive footprints during their time in the DMV, and have been an inspiration for all. We will miss you greatly. Best of luck in Vancouver.
Thank you, Holtby family.
Sad to see you go Holtby! You are one of the best. You goal stop in Vegas is one of the best memories I will carry of your stellar play. Thanks for all you have done for Caps Nation!
Well said, Colleen!
Thank you, Holtby family !
Thanks Braden Holtby & family! Good luck in the future!
We will miss you!! Thank you for taking your time signing autographs and taking pictures with all your fans . You never turned anyone down. Thank you for all you done !! You will always be a Washington Caps in our hearts, no matter who you play for !! Love the Holtbeast!!!
Think this article should’ve said Caps PR department thank Holtby for time!,especially after GM’s call saying he hadn’t “talked” to Braden ,shows how little he respects his veterans! Should’ve “maned up”& been better man to do right thing in person. Thinking of the stories of players like Bobby Orr & Dave Keon who got disrespected by teams they had success with & got mistreated upon leaving, things come back to bite you! I’am sure Holtby’s will enjoy being back in Western Canada !!
I get what your saying, Scott. Holtby’s departure was not ideal. But these are weird times. That coupled with the strange nature of free agency can make it difficult to connect. Heck, Holtby’s last home game (3/4) ended way too quietly. I would bet they get together before Holtby splits town.
Bet they won’t !good western boy’s don’t take “disrespect” well. He’ll take victories against Caps as better revenge!