Photo: Washington Capitals
Earlier today, Nicklas Backstrom and Braden Holtby were named to the 2016 All-Star Game roster, joining Alex Ovechkin, who was named Metropolitan Division Captain last weekend. This marks the first time since 1985 that the Capitals have had 3 players appointed to the All-Star Game at once.
The team was quick to react to the NHL’s choices. Nicklas has long been considered by Caps fans as All-Star material, but this will be his first time attending the All-Star game. His reaction was priceless.
Backstrom said he was surprised to learn he'll be an all-star. Why? "I haven't been to an all-star game before."
— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) January 6, 2016
All-Star Captain Alex Ovechkin seemed pretty excited about his partner-in-crime joining him in Nashville.
Before Backstrom spoke to reporters, Ovechkin introduced him as, “All-Starrrrr, Nicklas Backstrrrrrom.”
— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) January 6, 2016
While Caps fans have been petitioning for Backstrom for many years, this was Holtby’s first big chance at the All-Star game. He was asked about his opinions on being selected, and on the new 3-on-3 tournament format:
Holtby on playing the goaltender-friendly 3-on-3 format: “It’ll be interesting. Will try to get through it without getting hurt.”
— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) January 6, 2016
Asked Holtby if the ASG was something he’d enjoy. “I enjoy playing for the Capitals more than anything.”
— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) January 6, 2016
The Caps media was quick to praise the decision by the NHL:
Finally he gets the recognition he deserves!One of the quietest Stars in the NHL.Congrats Nick#CapitalsTalk pic.twitter.com/PN7YVOFRLx
— Craig Laughlin (@Laughlin18) January 6, 2016
As always, Nicklas is a very humble big star! #CapitalsTalk https://t.co/Oawv0iJRDF
— Joe Beninati (@JoeBpXp) January 6, 2016
Even the always-adorable Grandma Locker threw in her 2 cents.
https://twitter.com/JosieJosephinel/status/684793268744404992
Congrats to all the Capitals All-Stars. Their appointment to the ASG is definitely well-deserved, and we hope that they have fun in Nashville. Not too much fun. They must come back to DC not too tired and not injured.
