ARLINGTON, VA — This offseason, the Washington Capitals rolled out the welcome mat for a slew of new talent, and it seems the team’s spirited culture is impressing many. Both Jakob Chychrun and Logan Thompson have signed lengthy contract extensions, committing to the team for eight and six more years, respectively.

After being traded to the Capitals recently, it took these players less than a season to realize they wanted to make D.C. their permanent home. With the Capitals leading the Eastern Conference with an impressive 47-16-9 record, the allure of on-ice success is undeniable. Chychrun will see his salary skyrocket to $9 million per year, while Thompson will earn $5.85 million. But more than just financial incentive, Head Coach Spencer Carbery emphasized the crucial role of the team’s culture in players’ decisions to commit long-term.

“I think these signings reflect our cultural goals within the organization—the community we’re part of, the support from fans, and the atmosphere in our arena,” Carbery stated. “When players consider long-term commitments, it’s about much more than hockey; it’s about their families and their lives here.”

Creating this nurturing environment is a priority for Carbery, who is currently a frontrunner for the Jack Adams Award. Players resonate with this sentiment. Earlier in the season, Thompson pointed to the team’s welcoming culture as pivotal to his success, which sees him among the top goaltenders in the league.

“It’s really a tribute to management, our coaching staff, and the leadership group in the locker room,” Thompson noted. “They’ve done a fantastic job accepting and integrating us. This is why we’re thriving; we genuinely enjoy playing for one another.”

The trend of players signing long-term deals with the Capitals extends beyond the current season. Dylan Strome initially joined the Caps on a one-year deal in 2023, seeking the best contract opportunity after leaving the Chicago Blackhawks. Barely months into his tenure, he recognized the value of the team culture and quickly signed an extension until 2028. Strome has become a crucial player, racking up 68 points this season alone.

“I really had no idea what I was getting into regarding the Capitals' environment,” Strome admitted. “I was just looking for a spot that could offer me the most, but I immediately felt I belonged here and wanted to extend my stay.”

Charlie Lindgren’s path mirrored Strome’s, having spent considerable time in the AHL before making an impact in the NHL. After a standout season that led the Capitals to the playoffs, he inked a three-year extension this month. When asked about the factors contributing to players finding success in Washington, he didn’t hesitate.

“It’s all about the people,” he emphasized. “From our security staff to our medical team, everyone plays a role in fostering a positive atmosphere. Here, players are recognized for their uniqueness, which helps us bond beyond just ‘typical hockey guys.’ We can be different, and that diversity enriches our chemistry.”

The Capitals’ camaraderie is palpable, evident in everything from their pranks to their quirky pregame rituals. Lindgren shared a memorable instance of support after he accidentally scored an own goal in November. Instead of reproach, his teammates celebrated him with the player-of-the-game chain, demonstrating their solidarity.

“Seeing the guys rally around me after that goal was really something special. It shows how our team comes together during tough moments and reinforces our bond,” Lindgren said. “Off the ice, we hang out together, which creates a genuine sense of inclusion. There are no cliques here, making us feel like a true family.”

With Alex Ovechkin nearing the end of his iconic career, the Capitals are strategically reinvesting in their future by bringing in fresh talent. Despite the myriad changes through trades and free-agent acquisitions, it’s the team’s positive culture that keeps players wanting to return.

“Having such a great organization in a fantastic area like D.C. makes it an easy choice,” Carbery concluded. “You can feel our fan base’s passion, and it’s something our players cherish. It’s clear why so many want to be part of this journey together.”

As the Capitals continue their campaign, expect more players to hop on board, drawn by the irresistible mix of camaraderie, competitive spirit, and the undeniable joy of playing in Washington.