The holiday season can be a lonely time, especially for foreign-born players who are living away from their families and are unfamiliar with the local celebrations. They can be especially lonely if you’re Andre Burakovsky, who–despite dropping so many hints that the Capitals cleaning staff will be picking them up until Christmas–didn’t manage to wrangle an invite to Thanksgiving dinner.
Samantha Pell of the Washington Post interviewed foreign players, including Burakovsky, about their Thanksgiving plans. “When I live in America I guess I have to follow the traditions and the holidays,” Burakovsky said, “so I haven’t really planned anything yet.”
John Carlson‘s family, however, had made plans. Carlson posted a picture of him, his wife Gina, and their youngest son Rudy celebrating. Burakovsky–and captain Alex Ovechkin–both left comments making sure the Carlsons know that their Caps family felt left out.
The comments section is where it gets even more interesting:
John Carlson’s response to his teammates was “real original,” but his wife Gina’s was more generous. In reply to Andre’s comment, she said, “Lucca said he doesn’t even know his uncle anymore, he’ll make you some chicken nuggets & stuffing next week 🥘🍴.” Andre and the Carlsons’ older son Lucca are good dinner pals. No word yet on whether or not Ovi gets any food, too.
The Carlsons’ wasn’t the only celebration Burky tried to get in on. During his interview with Pell, Burakovsky angled for an invite from teammate Tom Wilson. “We will see,” Burakovsky said. “We will see if I get an invite from Wilson. I like the holiday.”
Wilson didn’t extend an invite, but he did offer a chirp, because that’s apparently how they communicate. “Of course you do. You can eat lots of food!”
Wilson celebrated the holiday with his girlfriend and professional Beach Volleyball player Taylor Pischke. Even though the two are Canadian, Wilson posted this picture of their adorable themed cookies on Instagram.
Maybe Andre should have angled for an invite to the Oshies. Their turkey dinner is the cutest one we’ve ever seen.
