The lower bowl of Verizon Center was packed as fans came to welcome back the Caps. (Photos by Chris Gordon)

Just four months late, the Capitals are finally ready to start the season. Many fans, though, are still bitter after having their sport taken away for so long. On the Thursday night, the Capitals tried to alleviate some of that animosity with free food, Troy Brouwer dancing to Gangdam Style, Ted Leonsis saying things, and a open practice at Verizon Center.

“It was amazing to see all the fans out there,” defenseman Karl Alzner said after the practice. “It was the least we could do. I’m not a marketing genius — as players all we can really do is go out there and play hard to give them something fun to watch. It should be the first of a few things they do for the fans because we all know they appreciate us and we appreciate them.”

Below, take a look at my photos from the event.

Karl Alzner has a laugh during the practice.

Matt Hendricks shows off his game face — I think.

Alex Ovechkin waits for the puck.

Troy Brouwer jokes with his teammates.

Head coach Adam Oates schooling Nicklas Backstrom.

A wide shot of the action.

Michal Neuvirth prepares to make a save during a shootout drill.

Ovi beats Braden Holtby with a sick move.

The Paralyzer in action.

Holtby makes a save.

The Great Eight lets off a one-timer.

A fresh faced Mike Green talks to Elliot Segal of Elliot in the Morning.

Ovi receives instruction from Oates.

Marcus Johansson’s evil twin, seen here talking to the head coach.

Ovechkin throws t-shirts into the crowd.

Neuvy toss a shirt into the stands.

Eric Fehr came up with a rather interesting way to participate in the t-shirt toss.