Despite an 8-5 loss to the Buffalo Sabres, Sunday was a remarkable day for the Washington Capitals and their fans, as it marked the return of longtime color analyst Craig Laughlin to the booth. In January, Laughlin announced that he required heart surgery and would be stepping away from broadcasting. On Sunday, he received a heartfelt welcome back from his longtime broadcast partner, play-by-play man Joe Beninati. “It’s a big day for everybody,” Beninati said before the game. “Bless his heart.”
“It’s been physically and mentally challenging over these last eight weeks or so,” Laughlin shared. “But I treated this journey like an injury in hockey—I had this date in mind, determined to battle back and sit next to you for this game. I’m so excited to be back.”
Laughlin, who had open heart surgery on Feb. 4, made his return to the booth on Sunday. https://t.co/I4m3bABIU1 pic.twitter.com/bs5zRCkld1
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) March 31, 2025
Laughlin expressed gratitude to his doctors, the Capitals organization, fans, and family, with a special acknowledgment for Alan May, who stepped in as the lead analyst during Laughlin’s absence. “No. 1, he arguably saved my life with Life Guard Imaging, and No. 2, he’s a tremendous analyst,” he stated. “When I retire in 15 years, if he’s not in an old age home, he’s likely to take this seat away.” Turning to Beninati, Laughlin added, “You called just about every day, and I probably answered none of them, but I knew you were thinking of me.”
“Ladies and gentlemen, some things never change,” joked Beninati. During a break in the game, a surprise video tribute welcomed Laughlin back, with fans and players applauding his return.
Craig’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring 💪
What a warm welcome back for @Laughlin18 from #ALLCAPS fans in @CapitalOneArena ❤️
Happy to have you back on MNMT, Locker! We are all #LockerStrong! pic.twitter.com/UtNTChZ1zy
— Monumental Sports Network (@MonSportsNet) March 30, 2025
“Wow, that caught me off guard,” Laughlin remarked. “Fantastic support from family, friends, fans, Monumental, and everyone involved.”
