Dubois Returns to Columbus for the First Time as Member of the Capitals
A Complex Homecoming for the Blue Jackets’ Former Captain
Pierre-Luc Dubois’ return to Columbus as a member of the Washington Capitals on Saturday night was always going to be an emotional one. The 24-year-old spent the first four seasons of his NHL career with the Blue Jackets, serving as captain for two of them, before being traded to the Winnipeg Jets in January 2021.
Since then, Dubois has established himself as one of the league’s most promising young players, and he is coming off a career year in which he scored 28 goals and added 32 assists with the Jets and Capitals. But his return to Columbus was sure to stir up a mix of emotions, both for him and for the Blue Jackets fans who once cheered him on.
A Mixed Reception from the Crowd
The crowd at Nationwide Arena was a mix of cheers and boos as Dubois took the ice for warmups. Some fans were clearly happy to see him back in Columbus, while others were still resentful of the way he left the team.
Dubois admitted that it was a strange feeling to be back in Columbus as an opponent.
“It’s definitely weird,” he said. “I spent four years here, and I have a lot of great memories. But I’m with the Capitals now, and I’m focused on helping my team win.”
A Strong Performance on the Ice
Despite the emotions of the night, Dubois put in a strong performance on the ice. He scored a goal and added an assist in the Capitals’ 4-3 shootout win.
It was a performance that showed that Dubois is still one of the most dangerous players in the NHL. He is a skilled skater with a great shot, and he is always a threat to score.
A Complex Legacy in Columbus
Dubois’ legacy in Columbus is a complex one. He was a popular player who helped the Blue Jackets reach the playoffs for the first time in franchise history. But he also forced his way out of town, and some fans will never forgive him for that.
Only time will tell how Dubois’ legacy will be ultimately judged in Columbus. But for one night, at least, he was able to put the past behind him and focus on the present.
