With the start of the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs fast approaching, the entire Washington Capitals fanbase is gearing up for what will hopefully be a long postseason run. On Friday, the Smithsonian National Zoo announced the release of panda-themed hockey merchandise featuring star Giant Panda cub Xiao Qi Ji to support the Caps as they start the run for Lord Stanley’s mug.Some of the items fans and panda lovers alike can purchase are t-shirts (both unisex and women’s sizes), face masks, and hats, all adorned with the profile of Xiao Qi Ji and the word “Pandamonium”. Anyone interested in purchasing the products can go to www.NationalZooPanda.com to find a full array of products.

This is not the first time the Zoo and its panda star have shown support for the hometown Capitals, as the Zoo wished the team good luck prior to the start of the 2020-21 season. Buyers will be given the option to leave a note for the panda keepers as well as contribute a donation to Giant Panda conservation prior to checkout.

By Michael Fleetwood