The Washington Capitals welcomed Braden Holtby back to DC on Sunday afternoon with a tribute video and prolonged standing ovation.

Well deserved for — if you’ll forgive me for being personal for a moment — my favorite Capital of all time.

Holtby played 468 games for Washington, recording 282 wins, a Vezina trophy, and a Stanley Cup.

Forever a Capital.#ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/6C4hl7MoIJ

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) March 20, 2022

Holtby was unable to play today due to a lingering injury, but he traveled with the Stars, and we’re so glad he did.  The crowd at Capital One Arena gave Holtby a lengthy ovation.

Standing ovation for 2018 Stanley Cup champion Braden Holtby. #Caps pic.twitter.com/STNRqtYfay

— Tarik El-Bashir (@Tarik_ElBashir) March 20, 2022

Once play resumed, the crowd began a chant that had become commonplace here since 2011: “Holtby! Holtby.”

The Dallas broadcast spoke to Holtby after the festivities.

Holts feels all your love, @Capitals fans ♥💙

📺 @BallySportsSW | #TexasHockey pic.twitter.com/GO9hCI7UKh

— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) March 20, 2022

“This city’s such a good hockey city,” Holtby said. “The fans are incredible. They always treated me and my family so well. To get appreciation like that– I wish I could turn it around on them somehow.”

Holtby’s the best. The absolute best.

Headline photo: NBC Sports Washington