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Capitals Begin 2025-26 Season Against Bruins in Home Opener

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Washington Capitals Vs. Boston Bruins Nhl

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Washington Capitals are set to open their 2025-26 NHL season tonight at Capital One Arena against the Boston Bruins. This follows a successful 2024-25 season where the Caps finished atop the Eastern Conference with 111 points.

With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, the Capitals aim to prove that their 20-point improvement last season wasn’t just a fluke. Among the team’s key players, veteran Alex Ovechkin is 40, while younger members like Ryan Leonard are just beginning their careers at 21.

“I think it has to motivate you,” said goaltender Logan Thompson, who will take the ice for his first opening night as a starter. “People doubting us motivates me, and I believe it pushes everyone in this dressing room.”

After an encouraging 7-2-0 start last October, Thompson stressed the importance of a strong beginning this year as well. “It’s about putting our best foot forward in the first game. Everyone starts with a clean slate, regardless of what happened last year,” he said.

Capitals defenseman Martin Fehervary will also reach a personal milestone tonight, playing his 300th NHL game. Fehervary recently signed a seven-year extension, indicating his commitment to the team. “I’m so honored and appreciative that I could sign a long-term deal here,” he expressed.

Newcomer Ryan Leonard, who debuted in the NHL last season, is excited for his first opening night. “I feel like a completely different player out there,” he said. “Starting out with these guys really helps.” Leonard is expected to skate alongside veteran Anthony Beauvillier tonight.

As both teams have scouted each other in preseason games, Capitals coach Spencer Carbery highlighted the strategies they’d developed. “When a new coach comes in, we adapt to any changes in their systems,” Carbery noted. “We expect a really competitive Bruins team under their new head coach Marco Sturm.”

Following tonight’s home opener, the Capitals will prepare for a weekend of back-to-back games in New York, first facing the Islanders and then the Rangers.