Nicklas Backstrom

Leader, role model, and warrior: Capitals players salute retiring Brooks Orpik on social media

Brooks Oprik announced his retirement through a Capitals release on Tuesday morning.

During his time in Washington, the hulking defenseman left an indelible impact on his teammates. From his big goals to his big hits, Capitals players looked up to Orpik as a leader, role model, and friend. On social media and in statements released through the team, the Capitals showered Orpik with praise and thanked him for his time in Washington.

“Batya was a great leader in our locker room and was so important for us to win our first Stanley Cup,” Alex Ovechkin said.

“He is a terrific person and a friend,” TJ Oshie said.

“Thanks for always looking after me on and off the ice,” Andre Burakovsky said. “You have been a true friend and role model for me.”

Hockey players can sometimes be inarticulate. This is not one of those times.

(more…)