Photo: @Capitals
Washington Capitals goaltender Vitek Vanecek made his NHL debut Friday night as the Capitals clashed with the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center. A first career NHL game is one a player will never forget. The night became even better as the Capitals pulled out a 2-1 victory over the Sabres.
“The dream came true,” Vanecek said about playing his first career NHL game. “I’m so happy we won.” After that statement, Vanecek got a shaving cream towel to the face courtesy of forward Tom Wilson.
🥧 @vitacz15 pic.twitter.com/YBaBQJjPMY
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) January 16, 2021
He noted he was a “little bit nervous”, but got comfortable and “better” as the game went on. “It feels so good,” Vanecek said to finally play in an NHL game.
Defenseman Justin Schultz was also on the call and expressed how Vanecek played a “huge” role in their win over Buffalo. “We weren’t playing well in front of him…he kept us in it.”
“The dream came true. I’m so happy we won…” [pie]
Caps goalie Vitek Vanecek talks to the media after his first NHL start and win alongside defenseman Justin Schultz#CapsSabres pic.twitter.com/zbHnGCKRus
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) January 16, 2021
Hockey hugs for Vanecek followed the game by his teammates.
Vitek Vanecek gets the W and the hugs in his @NHL debut! #NHLFaceOff pic.twitter.com/KiZ77WGWJ1
— NHL GIFs (@NHLGIFs) January 16, 2021
The 25-year-old made 30 saves in tonight’s game.
Stopped 30 shots for his first career win.
Bravo, @vitacz15! 👏#ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/zh7h6SjUtZ
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) January 16, 2021
By Della Young
