The Washington Capitals signed center Dylan Strome to a one-year, $3.5 million contract back on July 14 as a potential remedy for the pending absence of Nicklas Backstrom. The third overall pick in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft made his Capitals’ debut Wednesday night in Philadelphia, and did so in impressive fashion, potting two goals in the Capitals 3-1 victory.
Strome’s first tally in a Washington Capitals’ sweater came at 7:42 of the second period, giving the Capitals a 2-0 lead.
We like these new guys pic.twitter.com/vxKTVwipa1
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) September 29, 2022
Strome’s second goal of the contest came at 16:20 of the third period, sealing the victory for the visitors.
That Erie Otters connection is STRONG pic.twitter.com/kWteMzy8fC
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) September 29, 2022
Strome, 25, tallied 22 goals, 48 points and a 52.3% faceoff-winning percentage in 69 games last season. All attractive numbers when discussing potential fill-ins for Backstrom. He met with the media following last night’s game:
“We had some good looks and some good chances. It was nice to capitalize on a few.”
Dylan Strome speaks to the media after scoring two goals in his preseason debut with the Capitals tonight.#CapsFlyers pic.twitter.com/5Q7x1aoDLa
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) September 29, 2022
“It’s been good, I got here early September”, said Strome in his media day presser. “I’ve been skating here for a couple weeks now, and it feels good. A lot of nice guys in the dressing room and made me feel welcome. My wife and daughter are at our house in Arlington; it’s a great spot, some nice restaurants around the neighborhood and seems family friendly.”
By Jon Sorensen
Outlook for the Caps this season took a bit of a jump last night.