Long-time Washington Capitals fans may have recognized a familiar name called during the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft on Friday night. The Winnipeg Jets selected defenseman Sascha Boumedienne with the 28th overall pick.
The 18-year-old Finland native is the son of defenseman Josef Boumedienne who spent parts of four seasons in the NHL, including 43 games with the Caps (6 in 2002-03 and 37 in 2003-04). He scored just four goals during his NHL career, three of which came with the Capitals. He also recorded 12 assists, all during the 2003-04 season.
Some may remember the crunching hits “Boomer,” as Capitals color commentator Craig Laughling used to call him, would deliver to unsuspecting opponents. Here’s a look back at one from Feb. 15, 2004 when Boumedienne ran over Chicago Blackhawks centerman Tyler Arnason during a 4-0 victory at United Center.
Josef also played 65 total games in the American Hockey League, playing 13 games with the Portland Pirates in 2003-04 and 52 games with the Hershey Bears in 2007-08.
Despite earning a one-year contract extension with the Caps, Josef spent the 2004-05 NHL lockout in the Swedish and Finnish leagues. He unfortunately never touched the ice for an NHL team again but currently serves as an assistant coach for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Sascha played his 2024-25 season at Boston University, alongside Capitals 2024 second round selection Cole Hutson (43rd overall). He racked up 13 points (3g, 10a) aiding the Terriers to their 12th NCAA National Championship appearance in program history.
