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The Washington Capitals kicked off their 2023 Mentor’s Trip with a resounding 5-1 victory over the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on March 11. The “W” comes as the team is fighting to remain in the Wild Card conversation for a seed in the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

The Capitals’ annual mentors’ trip was kicked off in spectacular fashion, with the Caps putting a five-spot on the board with their proud papas watching on.

Prior to the game, Frank Milano, father of forward Sonny Milano (born in Massapequa, New York), read the starting lineup in place of Head Coach Peter Laviolette in spectacular fashion.

This just in: We would run through a wall for Frank Milano, father of Sonny “Son Man” Milano pic.twitter.com/p566d0pUUe

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) March 12, 2023

After the game, right wing T.J. Oshie was awarded the team’s victory firefighter rope, but instead deferred it to Frank (with Sonny giving a speech) much to the delight of the room.

Big vibes thanks to Big Frank#ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/x7NZtBitSx

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) March 12, 2023

“…Might have to keep him around the rest of the year”, Dylan Strome said after scoring a goal with his father Chris in attendance, “It’s fun to have them here, they bring great energy, and I think this is what we needed.”

FOR THE DADS AND MENTORS pic.twitter.com/738fIZwkqK

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) March 12, 2023

The Caps moved to 17-7-0 all-time with their fathers and mentors in attendance and continue their trip with a visit to the New York Rangers on March 14.

With a 5-1 win tonight against the Islanders, the Capitals move to 17-7-0 with their mentors in attendance.

— CapitalsPR (@CapitalsPR) March 12, 2023

By Michael Fleetwood

Put on a show for these legends pic.twitter.com/NZi5ZZiFkV

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) March 12, 2023