Video Tribute: The New York Rangers

The New York Rangers organization has always been incredibly kind to me, although this night the Washington Capitals outshone the Rangers' hospitality when I attended this game at Verizon Center in Washington, DC.

I did not identify myself to the Washington Capitals as press. That night, I was just a New York Rangers fan in Washington, DC. I was there to cheer on my new home team play against my old home team. Since becoming part of the media, I am never afforded the chance to cheer for any team, nor am I allowed to discuss my team loyalties or favorite players with anyone. This trip was designed to let my inner fan leak out. (Just so you know, the Rangers are not the only team I cheer for. There are a lot of teams I cheer for.)

There were a few Washingtonians that were not pleased that I was cheering for the Rangers, because I am still a Capitals' fan at heart. I just like to tease them and say, "We have your Jagr now!" That is a very sore subject for them.

My very first NHL hockey game was in 2001, the Washington Capitals vs. the Boston Bruins. Jaromir Jagr was playing for the Capitals then and was later traded to the New York Rangers after Jagr became very difficult to work with after he had his heart broken. Capitals fans were in love with Jagr the moment he donned a Capitals jersey, but Jagr's personal problems made his time in DC a miserable time for everyone. The trade was a great move for everyone, but Capitals fans still miss the big guy.

Despite my Rangers t-shirt, the Capitals gave me the VIP treatment while I was there.