(Photo Credit: M. Richter)

Fans saw shades of the shortened 2013 NHL season in September when Brooks Laich had to leave the Caps’ first on ice practice session with yet another injury. After a tedious recovery from the groin injury that sidelined him last season, Laich was suddenly impaired with a hip injury and fans crossed their collective fingers.

Laich is not just another player. He’s our Brooksy— a beloved, veteran player. Frequently referred to as “the heart of the team,” Laich, an alternate captain, is a true leader and respected by teammates and fans alike. Born June 23, 1983 and hailing from Wawota Saskatchewan, Laich was drafted by the Ottawa Senators in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. He was later traded to the Capitals as part of the package for Peter Bondra, and he has been a coveted member of the Caps family ever since. Fans were more than delighted when he was healthy and ready to play this season.

So, with the Caps’ season off to a shaky start and the Edmonton Oilers striking first Monday night, someone had to step up and “break the ice” for the Caps. It’s no surprise that Laich started the scoring against the Oilers. Assisted by Steve Oleksy, Laich found the back of the net sparking his teammates to continue the scoring. Joel Ward, Alex Ovechkin, and Troy Brouwer would follow Laich’s lead dominating the Oilers, 4-2, for the Caps’ second win of the season.

“Hopefully, I got the building into it and the guys going,” said Laich about his first goal of the season. “Once you get the first goal in the game the guys start thinking about two, three and more. It gives you confidence.”

Fans will certainly be thinking about more, Brooksy! Let’s Go Caps!