Post by ALL CAPS on Oct 7, 2019 23:00:51 GMT -5
Washington, DC -- It's pretty safe to say that over the last year Austin Watson has the good side of bad and the downside of up and everything between. The 27-year old native of Ann Arbor, Michigan and former top draft pick of the Arizona Coyotes (12th overall in 2010) has had more than his share of issues off of the ice which has at times put his career in jeopardy. Yet, like loyal friend, Watson has persevered, against all odds, to return to the game that he loves.
This week Watson suited up for the Washington Capitals in pre-season action, a reward from the organization for his progress and maturity. While he averaged just over 8:30 minutes of ice over his two game stint, Watson was able to score 2 goals on 6 shots, including the game winner against Columbus Blue Jackets on Monday.
"It means a lot to wear this sweater, it's a great honor. I'm going to remember this day, tonight's game, and use it as motivation." Watson said following the game. He is expected to spend this season with the AsHL London Knights, where he is expected to be a key contributor on the teams top scoring line.
Caps GM Rob Willis issued a statement of support and praise for Watson on Tuesday night saying: "I like the resiliency, strength and courage that Austin has shown over the last year which he has demonstrated by facing demons head on, if you will, and making the right choices in order to improve his quality of life. I see a young man that is trying to be a better person, and I believe that has also made him a better hockey player. It's just really a great moment when you see a guy like that have an impact on the game like he did tonight against the Jackets. He's going to draw into the line-up again tomorrow night as we'll continue with modified line combinations. I think you'll see Austin get some good minutes tomorrow night."
This week Watson suited up for the Washington Capitals in pre-season action, a reward from the organization for his progress and maturity. While he averaged just over 8:30 minutes of ice over his two game stint, Watson was able to score 2 goals on 6 shots, including the game winner against Columbus Blue Jackets on Monday.
"It means a lot to wear this sweater, it's a great honor. I'm going to remember this day, tonight's game, and use it as motivation." Watson said following the game. He is expected to spend this season with the AsHL London Knights, where he is expected to be a key contributor on the teams top scoring line.
Caps GM Rob Willis issued a statement of support and praise for Watson on Tuesday night saying: "I like the resiliency, strength and courage that Austin has shown over the last year which he has demonstrated by facing demons head on, if you will, and making the right choices in order to improve his quality of life. I see a young man that is trying to be a better person, and I believe that has also made him a better hockey player. It's just really a great moment when you see a guy like that have an impact on the game like he did tonight against the Jackets. He's going to draw into the line-up again tomorrow night as we'll continue with modified line combinations. I think you'll see Austin get some good minutes tomorrow night."