Rest easy, Washington Capitals fans! “I’ve been advised by my group of doctors that I need heart surgery,” iconic NHL broadcaster and former player Craig Laughlin told the media last month, and it looks like he’s finally out of the woods. The long-time Washington color analyst stepped away from the game to focus on his health, but he could be on his way back, and soon!

After the Capitals fans noticed the absence of their favorite commentator in several matches without any explanation, they feared the worst. However, it seems like the 67-year-old has come out of the troubled waters with flying colors.

In his recent social media update on X from February 11, the legendary Washington Capitals figure shared his health condition with a beaming smile. Noting how his open heart surgery from one week ago was a successful affair, Laughlin wrote, “I am thankful to now be at home recovering after spending 6 days in the hospital & I am so grateful for my incredible surgeon, Dr. MacGillivray, and my entire care team.”

He also revealed that he’s still on cautionary safety and treatment plans like LTIR (Lost Time Incident Rate) and UBI (ultraviolet blood irradiation). However, thankfully, the doctors and staff of the MedStar Washington Hospital Center have been more than helpful in ensuring the ex-Washington Capitals star’s recovery was on the right track.

Just days ago, during the match between Washington and Florida, fans were elated after getting an update on Craig’s health over the PA. The entire Capital One Arena stood on its feet to laud the good news, and now, it looks like Laughlin will soon be able to talk about his condition by himself! Certainly, it’s news to rejoice over! However, it’s not like Craig had to mount the uphill climb all by himself. Himself, the community stood by his side at every step of the way during the strenuous journey.

The Washington Capitals community did their part in every way possible

With Laughlin among their ranks, the Washington Capitals made an appearance in the playoffs for the first time in their history. Naturally, this is enough to help understand how Craig is an integral part of the franchise’s history. Naturally, when his deteriorating health condition came to light, fans stepped up to give back to him in every way possible.

After Washington’s match against the Penguins last month, Craig went AWOL. But he wouldn’t be left alone to fight alone in the dire situation. The Capitals fans sent countless messages wishing Laughlin a speedy recovery after learning about his surgery. “From texts, DMS, emails, phone calls, or just comments on social media, there has to be thousands of messages. It’s definitely been overwhelming, but in a good way. It brings tears to my eyes to see and feel how much love Caps Nation has for not only my dad but for our entire family,” said the ex-Capitals star’s daughter Courtney, according to RMNB.

She also took to social media to reveal that fans could show their support further by purchasing the specially designed #LockerStrong t-shirts (a nod to Craig being part of the iconic Joe B. & Locker duo), and fans were quick to respond. Now that it’s clear that Laughlin will be back in his chair soon, do you think the Washington Capitals will be able to hold on to their top spot in the Metropolitan Division after the action resumes post the 4 Nations Face-Off? Tell us your thoughts on Craig Laughlin’s contributions to the team’s success in a comment!

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