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The Washington Capitals signed goaltender Charlie Lindgren in free agency to back up new starter Darcy Kuemper this season. The former Montreal Canadien and St. Louis Blue recently spoke highly about the place he will call home for the next three seasons on former Capitals defenseman Karl Alzner’s podcast.
If there was one city in the world of hockey that one would name as being revered and full of history, Montreal might top many a fan’s list. Home of the Original Six member Canadiens, Lindgren’s new home, Washington, D.C., boasts a wealth of history in its own right, with numerous national monuments to historical figures, the United States, war veterans, and museums dedicated to the preservation of various aspects of history, there will be no shortage of opportunities for the 28-year old Lindgren to make use of off days as a member of the Capitals.
“I’ve always heard really good things about the organization”, Lindgren said, “It was definitely a spot I could see myself being at.” In reference to the city’s storied past, the Lakeville, Minnesota native appears to be a perfect fit to be the Caps’ new backup goalie. “It’s just a heck of a city, it’s a lot of fun seeing all the monuments. I’m a fan of U.S. history…so obviously just a very cool environment.”
The Capitals’ locker room has long been lauded as one of the most welcoming and cohesive by many a player who has had the opportunity to suit up in Washington. From prospects to established players, the atmosphere in the dressing room has a reputation that precedes it. “I’ve always heard really good things”, reaffirmed Lindgren,
“My view of the Capitals, is you look at the last 15 years, they’re always a team that’s been competitive. Obviously you start with [Alex] Ovechkin, and Nicklas Backstrom, TJ Oshie, and [John] Carlson…a lot of people once I signed were like ‘you’re going to have a lot of fun with them in practice’. It looks like a great group of guys, seriously I’ve heard it’s a heck of a dressing room.”
The Capitals made a number of other additions during the offseason that should only add to the glowing reviews that the new netminder has heard about his new teammates (Lindgren attended St. Cloud State University, the alma mater of Capitals forward and defenseman Nic Dowd and Nick Jensen, and has spoken to them about Washington).
“My dog’s name is Riley, he’s half-lab, half-Australian Shepherd”, revealed Lindgren as a series of barks echoed in the background, who has already been contacted about the Capitals’ annual Canine Calendar sold to benefit local animal rescues. “I think I got a text about that a couple weeks ago…certainly he’s my best buddy, he’s been a great addition to our family, and he’s a really good dog.” The Capitals are a close unit on and off the ice, with spouses and families often spending time together away from the ice, four-legged members included.
The Capitals will return for 2022-23 training camp at the end of the month, with training camp starting on September 22 at MedStar Capitals Iceplex. Fans will have their first chance to see Lindgren in action and Lindgren the opportunity to embrace the fan base he seems to already be eager to play for.
To listen to the full podcast, go to APPLE or SPOTIFY.
By Michael Fleetwood
