With Washington Capitals management coaches someone deciding that it’s still a good idea to carry three goaltenders and ride a prospect’s hot hand, normal starter Braden Holtby rode the pine again. In fact, The Holtbeast has been benched for four of the Capitals’ last six games. Instead of sick split saves and fist pumps, we’ve been treated to images of Holtby sitting awkwardly in steel chairs and playing defense during practice.

Tonight, however, Holtby still managed to make an appearance during the game – though it was brief. And you had to really be looking for it.

After a second period whistle, Braden reached over the boards and gave Jason Chimera a loving pat on the head.

GIF by welshhockeyfan

Here’s the story.

After Jason Chimera tried to poke the puck to Joel Ward, his pass was blocked by Mark Fistric. Fistric then dumped Chimera to the ice. As Chimera fell, the puck got stuck between his leg and the boards. The play was blown dead.

Chimmer, there is no need to be exasperated because Braden loves you.

Thanks to my boy Fedor Fedin who first noticed this.