Washington Capitals
The Washington Capitals welcomed alumni and 2018 Stanley Cup hero Devante Smith-Pelly back to MedStar Capitals Iceplex on Friday ahead of their Celebrating Black History festivities at Capital One Arena on February 25.
Smith-Pelly, who played 129 games in a Capitals sweater over parts of two seasons in the District and was a key component of the team’s run to the 2018 Stanley Cup championship, will partake in a ceremonial puck drop prior to the Caps’ tilt against the New York Rangers as part of the team’s celebration of the contributions of black players in the sport of hockey.
Smith-Pelly, who was known affectionately as “DSP”, mingled with his former teammates while attending the Caps’ practice and was joined by award-winning illustrator Robert Generette III (also known as “RobZilla”) film producer Kwame Brown in the team’s dressing room to discuss the significance of black players in the game of hockey and unveil the team’s warmup jerseys, designed by Generette III.
Today the Capitals invited film producer Kwame Mason, artist Rob ZIlla and Devante Smith-Pelly into the room to talk about the importance of celebrating Black history in hockey as well as debut this year’s new gear and theme song. #ALLCAPS | #BHM pic.twitter.com/bL3EskEyzM
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) February 24, 2023
The sweater’s design implements the “W” seen on the team’s current third jersey and features 11 lines symbolizing the 11 black players in franchise history along with other special nuances dedicated to the DC-area.
Smith-Pelly announced his retirement at the end of 2022, after one season overseas and nearly 500 NHL games with four clubs.
By Michael Fleetwood
DSP in the house! Loved catching up with him today! He’s very excited to see all the Caps fans tomorrow, and no, he is not coming out of retirement. @CapitalsPR @7NewsDC @KgriggsPhoto pic.twitter.com/Ymd2sa3RVR
— Olivia Garvey (@Olivia7News) February 24, 2023
More Reading:
Devante Smith-Pelly Returns to MedStar Capitals Iceplex, Receives Rousing Ovation From Fans
He’s the Reason I Have a Ring: Former Capitals Teammates Believe Devante Smith-Pelly will Get Another Chance At an NHL Role
Welcome back DSP!
that’s awesome that DSP is still brought into the fold, a brother in arms, and a fellow Cup winning teammate. Good to see him having a good time with the guys