Photo: @Capitals/X
The Washington Capitals’ much-anticipated Opening Night brought with it a number of headlines, among some personnel shuffling prior to puck drop, the first game for Head Coach Spencer Carbery, and come game time, a tribute to longtime Center Lars Eller.
Eller, who signed with the Pittsburgh Penguins in free agency, was honored by the Caps with a video tribute and rousing standing ovation from the Capital One Arena faithful during the first period.
Forever a part of our legacy.
Welcome back, @lellerofficial #ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/0307wfjHPQ
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) October 13, 2023
Acquired by Washington at the 2016 NHL Entry Draft from the Montreal Canadiens, Eller spent seven seasons in the District, playing in 488 games and recording 208 Points (87 Goals, 121 Assists). He is best remembered for scoring the Stanley Cup-clinching goal in Game 5 of the 2018 Stanley Cup Final against the Vegas Golden Knights, securing the Caps’ first-ever championship in their second trip to the Stanley Cup Final in franchise history.
Eller was met with a standing ovation from the Capitals’ faithful, acknowledging them with a wave from the bench.
❤️ https://t.co/4aEpl4NgUV pic.twitter.com/Alq5k1fymF
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) October 13, 2023
Tiger tribute. #ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/gk0IPJdzeK
— NoVa Caps (@NoVa_Caps) October 13, 2023
Current Penguin and former Capital Lars Eller got a standing ovation during his welcome back video. Tiger scored some big goals during the ‘18 Cup run. #Caps pic.twitter.com/AJnacC3ccc
— Tarik El-Bashir (@Tarik_ElBashir) October 13, 2023
As part of the Caps’ sell-off at the 2023 trade deadline, Eller was dealt to the Colorado Avalanche, with whom he played just 24 games before departing to the Steel City in free agency, inking a two-year deal with the Pens.
By Michael Fleetwood