Caps place 'Cobra Kai' character cutouts in stands for home opener originally appeared on NBC Sports Washington
From the locker room bandanas to now character cardboard cutouts in the stands, "Cobra Kai" appears to have taken over as the theme of the Capitals season so far.
After Washington's season-opening win in Buffalo, new head coach Peter Laviolette honored the show by handing out two bandanas to recognize both the offensive and defensive stars of the game. That night, T.J. Oshie and Brenden Dillon took home the honors.
Laviolette's postgame tribute to the hit Netflix series drew widespread attention and even approval from both the show and Ralph Macchio himself. Based on the "Karate Kid" movie franchise, "Cobra Kai" became Laviolette's favorite TV show to binge during his year off from coaching after Nashville fired him last January.
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From Johnny Lawrence, John Kreese, Daniel LaRusso, and Mr. Miyagi front and center to other characters like Tory Nichols and Miguel Diaz in support in the back, the shorthanded Caps will have plenty of firepower in the stands when they take on the Sabres.
Though without their captain along with three vital players due to violating league protocols, the Caps should take comfort in the fact that the last time they paid tribute to "Cobra Kai" came after a win against the same team they'll play on Friday night: Buffalo.
If Laviolette's squad follows the show's motto of "Strike first. Strike hard. No mercy," then the Sabres may have a long night ahead of them.
Caps fans can also buy their own cutouts for $75 by visiting this link.
