Capitals and Bears will keep on roaring

The Washington Capitals and Hershey Bears are going to be roaring for more. Literally. Six more seasons to be exact as the clubs extended their affiliation agreement though the 2029-30 season. By the time that year wraps up, it'll complete a 25 consecutive season partnership between the two elite clubs. The Caps annouced this news on Monday afternoon.

Hershey has posted a record of 783-428-91 which is a .629 point percentage since their current affiliation with them and the Capitals began in 2005-06. Last season the Bears won their AHL record 12th Calder Cup championship and their fourth one during the current partnership. The Bears also hoisted the trophy in 2006, 2009, and 2010.

Capitals General Manager Brian MacLellan talked about the affiilation agreement extension in a press release from Capitals media relations:

""The Hershey Bears have played an integral role in the successful development and maturation of players within the Washington Capitals organization for many years, and we are excited to extend our affiliation for the next six seasons and continue our longstanding partnership. Not only have we had players come through Hershey, but several coaches currently on our staff and members of our support staff have plied their trade with the Bears before joining the Capitals.""

- Brian MacLellan

This is big for the future of the Capitals as they look to improve their prospect pool. It is also a home run for fans and players alike. Getting sent back from DC to Hershey Park doesn't quite sound like a tragedy. And it's a storied franchise which teaches the young bucks how to win.

Even though this was their first Calder Cup championship since 2010, the 2016 near championship where they fell just short in the finals helped prepare some of them for the future.