That was an exciting shootout win. We beat a great team that was undermanned but played like a defending Stanley Cup champion.

These games against the Penguins feel like Yankee vs. Red Sox games now don’t they? Anything can happen. Both teams fight and play each game like their lives depend on the outcome. It is a pleasure to watch these games. We are all watching something special unfold every time we get on the ice with the Penguins. I am very happy and proud of our fan base.

Thanks to all of our fans for posting our 50th straight sell out.

We have now reached 98 percent renewal for next season. What an amazing ride we are all on. Thank you so much.

We reached 108 points last night and there are 9 games left to play. The Caps are in first place in the East and the Penguins are in second place. We have 108 points and the Penguins have 91 points. We have scored 287 goals and they have scored 228 goals. We have let in 206 goals and they have let in 212 goals. It is always neck and neck now for the two teams. We have one game left with them this season to play. I am sure it will be another sight to behold.

I respect the Penguins. These games are fun to watch and are terrific advertisements for the state of play in the NHL.

One more thing…

The Washington Capitals believe in community and we love our fans. We have been very fair when it comes to people trying to associate themselves with us, and our legal response. However, we must now be very vigilant with that name and brand association. As we all saw the events unfurl this week when someone associated themselves with us and our brand when there wasn’t an official association in any manner.

I have seen Red Cowbells made with Rock the Red logos and Tee Shirts sold with Caps colors and with email addresses with Washington Capitals in the name and sig file and computer mouse pads with our players faces on them. I have read about official pizza parlors and official car accessory support staff and on and on. This type of unofficial association is wrong and can get you into trouble and us as well.

I need to let everyone know that the Washington Capitals brand is one that we need to protect. It is valuable and we do license it to some sponsors after we conclude a business deal and we both have researched and vetted one another.

Being an “official” Washington Capital’s partner is something we do not take lightly. It is something we negotiate and often times there is a business arrangement built around it as well. We will protect our brand. We will cherish our partners. Please do not try to take advantage of our brand or franchise or try to associate yourselves with us as an official partner. Be fair and responsible. If you want to be an official partner there is a way to do so above board and in a negotiated way. Thanks for hearing me out.