Capitals prepare for Stadium Series by practicing outdoors and family skating

Caps prep for Stadium Series with outdoor practice, family skate Original version: NBC Sports Washington

RALEIGH N.C. — The Washington Capitals On Friday night, I spent about 90 minutes on the ice at Carter-Finley Stadium. This was just 24 hours before puck drop. Saturday’s Stadium Series matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes.

Despite intermittent rain throughout the day, Capitals The Carter-Finley Stadium conditions were a huge hit with players.

“I thought that the ice was quite good.” T.J. Oshie Following practice. “We were fine out here, a lot o’ guys were snapping it up pretty well. There were a few firm bounces here and there, but the boards were very lively.

In an interview with NBC Sports Washington’s Al KokenCapitals forward Tom Wilson affirmed Oshie’s assertion that the ice is in good condition. Wilson has been out of action since January 24th due to a lower-body injury. Although Wilson participated in Friday’s skating, Capitals coach Peter Laviolette wasn’t sure if he would play against Carolina.

Capitals players also tested the ice at the outdoor rink. They used Friday’s skating to experience the different lighting and sightlines in Carter-Finley Stadium. Oshie admitted that it was different initially, but said that he and his teammates would soon adjust once the game starts.

“The sightlines look different. Oshie stated that the depth perception of the glass is not as good as it could be without Oshie standing behind the glass. “That was something we had in Annapolis too, but once the game began it didn’t seem to matter much. It’s a remarkable setup. It’s great to have a locker room. It looks great out on the ice. The lighting is good and the glare from the ice isn’t too harsh.

After 40 minutes of what looked like a morning skate on a gameday, the Carter-Finley Stadium ice quickly became a family affair.

Nicklas Backstrom was accompanied by Liza Berg, his wife, and their three children. Wilson laughed as Vince, Backstrom’s six year old son, skated around the rink. Backstrom laughed when the idea was brought up later. It’s all about the fees.

RELATED: Watch NBC Sports Washington’s expanded coverage of Capitals’ Stadium Series game

Wilson was joined by Taylor, his wife who was skating for only the second time. Taylor held onto Tom to give him extra support as Taylor made numerous laps around the ice. Wilson was pleased with Wilson’s progress after a successful skate.

The show was stolen by another Capitals player, his family Garnet HathawayHis wife and son were joined by Hathaway, along with many family members who stood rinkside. Hathaway made several laps across the ice while holding his son on his shoulder.

Capitals players were happy to see the family skate bring smiles and joy. breath of fresh air after recent struggles And ahead of a critical matchup Saturday in the playoff race.

Backstrom stated, “It’s amazing.” First of all, it’s extremely fortunate to be a part of an outdoor sport. It’s great to have your family there the day before and to have an outdoor skating session. This is a fact.

Hathaway stated, “It’s amazing to share with our family,” “We are so fortunate to be able to play in this league with such an amazing organization. It’s the best part about it: families are invited.”

Saturday’s Washington-Carolina matchup is as exciting and thrilling as it should be. It will have a major impact on the postseason push. The Capitals (62-points) lost to Florida on Thursday. They are tied with the Panthers for last Wild Card spot, one point behind the Wild Card. New York Islanders.

Capitals have lost three consecutive games and know how crucial Saturday’s game will be.

Oshie stated that if there aren’t any reasons to feel motivated for the match, it’s possible to find them in the locker-room. “We have an older group with a lot more families and kids. It’s easy to win a game while they’re there.