It appears the Capitals will be moving out of Washington, D.C. and relocating to a new arena in Northern Virginia.
A long-running tradition of Penguins fans celebrating on the steps of the National Portrait Gallery following road wins against the Washington Capitals could be coming to an end.
Reports out of WJLA say that later this morning, Capitals owner Ted Leonsis is expected to attend an event at Potomac Yard in Alexandria, Va.
Wizards and Capitals leaving D.C.? Virginia state lawmakers approve deal to lure both teams with new stadium in Alexandria:https://t.co/isvtGEnY4E
— Christian Flores (@CFloresNews) December 12, 2023
WJLA reports that Leonsis was considering moving both the Capitals and the Washington Wizards NBA team to Northern Virginia.
Local lawmakers in Virginia are expected to approve a sports district in Alexandria that both teams would use, along with a music and entertainment venue, a conference center, hotels, and a headquarters for Monumental Sports & Entertainment.
WJLA says that groundbreaking on the new complex and arena could take place in 2025 with the teams moving there in 2028.
Washington leaders are expected to try and keep the move from happening.
Last ditch effort to keep the Wizards and Capitals in D.C.? D.C. Mayor, council introduce bill to fund bulk of Capital One Arena renovations, keep teams in the city:https://t.co/ay3AaDGIQs
— Christian Flores (@CFloresNews) December 13, 2023
The Capitals have been playing at Capital One Arena for more than 25 years and in recent years, road games for the Penguins have led to a tradition for fans taking the steps of the National Portrait Gallery across the street after a road win.
To our fans (on the road and at home): You guys are the absolute BEST.
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) April 30, 2017
We can't wait to come home for Game Three on Monday night. pic.twitter.com/9Nun0d5zLg
It’s unclear if there will be any steps near the proposed new arena for the Capitals that Penguins fans could adopt as their own should the move take place.
