On Saturday in Prince Frederick, Maryland, Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson and goaltender Logan Thompson joined other notable figures for an autograph event that attracted hundreds of fans. The occasion took place at Prince Frederick Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM during their eleventh annual community appreciation event, bringing together Capitals players and enthusiasts eager to meet their hockey heroes. This Logan Thompson Capitals autograph event showcased some of the team’s top talent alongside 2018 Stanley Cup champion Evgeny Kuznetsov and former Capitals defenseman Al Iafrate.
Players and Personalities Create a Memorable Experience for Fans
In addition to Carlson and Thompson, Kuznetsov and Iafrate—known for winning the NHL’s Hardest Shot competition twice—were present to engage with fans. The event also featured Washington Capitals analyst Craig Laughlin, who mingled with attendees, signing autographs and sharing light-hearted moments. His humor was immediately apparent, as he jokingly greeted visitors with,
“Oh no, why are you here?! Who invited you?”
—Craig Laughlin, Capitals Analyst.
The event’s popularity was evident early in the day. Security footage revealed that the first attendees arrived by 5:50 a.m. to secure wristbands, prompting the organizers to extend the players‘ scheduled 2 p.m. departure to accommodate the large crowd. Dee Aud, comptroller and event coordinator for the dealership, shared,
“It’s fun surprising the community and fans with the opportunity to meet and greet people they only see on TV or at the games,”
—Dee Aud, Event Coordinator.
Evgeny Kuznetsov’s Unexpected Appearance Surprises Fans
Kuznetsov’s presence was a special highlight because he hasn’t played for the Capitals since the 2023-24 NHL season. His appearance came about after a viral incident showed him playing beer-league hockey at MedStar Capitals Iceplex the week before. Intrigued by this story, Aud decided to invite him, recalling,
“Wouldn’t it be cool if we could get him to come?”
—Dee Aud, Event Coordinator.
Kuznetsov arrived with the same vibrant energy that fans had admired during his decade-long tenure at Capital One Arena. His bright smile and infectious laughter filled the dealership as he joked with teammates Carlson and Thompson. He generously fulfilled fan requests, including taking selfies and signing Stanley Cup memorabilia alongside Carlson and Thompson, who added his autograph to some items as well.
Special Moments and Community Connections
Late in the event, Calvert County Sheriff Ricky Cox presented Kuznetsov and other players with challenge coins, adding a memorable touch to the gathering. When the session was nearing its end, Dee Aud asked Logan Thompson, who recently finished fourth in Vezina Trophy voting, to take a photo with her. Thompson happily agreed, but Kuznetsov playfully took over the role of photographer. Aud laughed while recounting the photos Kuznetsov snapped, saying,
“I had to laugh when I started looking through the pictures for the day. He was quite funny.”
—Dee Aud, Event Coordinator.
Before departing, Kuznetsov autographed a Hershey Bears 2024 Calder Cup champions hat. Though he spent just five days with the Capitals’ AHL affiliate in 2024 before being traded to the Carolina Hurricanes, he expressed pride in being part of that championship team. When told about his small but meaningful connection to the victory, Kuznetsov remarked,
“I know! I asked them for a day with the Calder Cup,”
—Evgeny Kuznetsov, Former Capitals Center.
Kuznetsov’s Down-to-Earth Attitude Reflects His Passion for Hockey
Despite uncertainty about where he will play professionally next season, Kuznetsov impressed with his humility and approachable manner. His willingness to engage with fans at a grassroots level, playing local men’s league games over the summer, underscores his enduring love for hockey. This Logan Thompson Capitals autograph event not only provided a unique fan experience but also highlighted the dedication and personality of some of the Capitals’ core players, strengthening community ties across Southern Maryland.