Blizzard Forces NHL to Postpone Capitals Game Against Ducks

The NHL postponed tonight’s Washington Capitals game against the Anaheim Ducks because of the blizzard battering the DC area.

The decision follows a last-ditch move to save the game on Thursday that pushed the start ahead two hours from 7 p.m. to 5 p.m. But with the Ducks needing to get to Detroit for tomorrow night’s game against the Red Wings, and locals reluctant to brave the elements for a mere game, the league opted to play another day.

City officials urged the team to pull the plug on the game:

“If the Capitals decide to bring their players in here and put them in danger…I’m not going to tell the NHL what to do.” – DCEMA Spokesman

— Jason Rogers (@HeyJayJRogers) January 22, 2016

DC officials urge cancellation of Capitals v Ducks game scheduled for 5pm. Says people should stay home starting at 3pm due to storm.

— Mark Knoller (@markknoller) January 22, 2016

The team vows to make a decision regarding Sunday’s home game against the Pittsburgh Penguins by Saturday morning. They also promise to release word on a make-up date for tonight’s postponed game as soon as they reschedule.

The National Weather Service issued a blizzard warning for the area beginning at 3 p.m. Friday and ending at 6 a.m. Sunday. Meteorologists predict 24 inches of snow for the city and as much as two-and-a-half feet for western suburbs. “Heavy snow and blowing snow will cause dangerous conditions and will be a threat to life and property,” the blizzard warning informs. “Travel is expected to be severely limited if not impossible during the height of the storm Friday night and Saturday. Visibility will be reduced to near zero at times in Whiteout Conditions.”