The Washington Capitals video production crew has had a busy week. Two days after airing an emotional tribute for Jay Beagle, who returned for the first time as a member of the Vancouver Canucks, the Caps saluted their longtime Stanley Cup-winning backup goaltender Philipp Grubauer.
Grubauer was traded to the Colorado Avalanche over the offseason along with Brooks Orpik to clear cap space and give the German goaltender an opportunity to become a full-time starter.
Ahead of the game, Grubauer said that “I’ve had this date circled. Washington is always going to be home.”
Video
Thank you, Grubi! pic.twitter.com/vTAgnnQWtt
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) February 8, 2019
The Capitals aired the video during the first TV timeout. The tribute included career highlights from Grubauer’s time in Hershey and in Washington as well as the tendy celebrating the Capitals’ Stanley Cup championship.
After the video aired, a smiling Grubauer stood at the bench and waved to the crowd.
Lots of love for Grubauer in his return to DC. pic.twitter.com/IeXjllUSdJ
— NHL GIFs (@NHLGIFs) February 8, 2019
He also waved to the Capitals bench as he took in a standing ovation.
Before the game, Grubi was honored with signs — just like Beagle nights before — during pregame warmups.
Welcome back, @philgrubauer31! ❤️🥅 pic.twitter.com/WUcRPZxiIC
— NBC Sports Capitals (@NBCSCapitals) February 7, 2019
Grubauer showed his gratitude by giving away as many warmup pucks as he could.
Mass puck giveaway from Grubauer. pic.twitter.com/FOqCuRVGeB
— NHL GIFs (@NHLGIFs) February 7, 2019
Thank you for the pucks @philgrubauer31 @Avalanche !!! I gave the other one to a kid if that's okay!!!! #CapsAvs pic.twitter.com/aOv41hKv1j
— #PhilippGrubauerDay020719 #CapsAvs (@TheWuWu) February 8, 2019
Photo: Emanuel Borja
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