Reasons to Attend a Washington Capitals Hockey Game

USA Today

Over the last 17 seasons, the Capitals have qualified for the playoffs 15 times, locking in their first Stanley Cup championship in 2018. The team has also won the President's Trophy, which is awarded to the most successful regular season team, three times in that span (2010, 2016, 2017). The team’s sustained competitiveness has made them one of the winningest franchises in recent NHL history.

Washington Capitals

Entering his 20th season in the NHL, Alex Ovechkin chases down history as he approaches Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record of 894 career tallies. Ovechkin, a nine-time Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy winner (most goals) and three-time Hart Trophy winner (MVP), has already surpassed numerous legends on the all-time goal-scoring list, including Gordie Howe, Jaromir Jagr and Brett Hull. Be a part of this historic chase as Ovechkin continues to cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in NHL history. Follow along all season with Caps social media (@capitals on Instagram) and watch games on Monumental Sports Network. Be sure to snag your tickets as you have 41 chances to see him in action at Capital One Arena.

Washington Capitals

Beyond Ovechkin's remarkable scoring, the Capitals boast a roster packed with returning and new talent. Franchise cornerstone John Carlson anchors the blue line with his defensive prowess and exceptional playmaking, while forward Tom Wilson brings a combination of grit and scoring punch. Center Dylan Strome is coming off back-to-back career years, while some of the team’s youngest players, including Connor McMichael, Hendrix Lapierre, Aliaksei Protas and Martin Fehervary, have brought additional speed and skill to the lineup. The team also added forwards Pierre-Luc Dubois and Andrew Mangiapane, defensemen Jakob Chychrun and Matt Roy as well as goaltender Logan Thompson to the roster this season, which will bring fresh energy and complement an already talented group, making every game on the schedule a must-see.

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The atmosphere both inside and outside Capital One Arena is electric and the Caps owe it all to their fans. Known as one of the loudest and most energetic arenas in the NHL, Capital One Arena is filled with 18,000+ passionate fans who “Rock the Red” at every game. The team’s community outreach, including partnerships with local charities and youth hockey programs, has only strengthened the bond between the Caps and their fans. Fans of all ages adore the team, creating one of the best sporting environments in the District.

Many sports fans will tell you that hockey, specifically the NHL brand, is the most entertaining sport to witness live. The game’s non-stop action, featuring speedy and skilled skating, gorgeous puck-handling, high-impact hits and goalies that stretch like ballerinas to make saves, will put you at the edge of your seat throughout the 60-minute game. In addition, there’s nary a bad view from Capital One Arena’s seats.

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Penn Quarter/Chinatown is one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the District. There are dozens of restaurants near Capital One Arena, as well as the shopping hub that is CityCenterDC. The Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery are housed in the same building across the street, while the National Gallery of Art is a short walk away. Have another night in the city? Check out a play at Ford’s Theatre or Shakespeare Theatre Company.