Jakob Chychrun's mother Nancy pens 4-word message after Capitals D-man reaches major NHL milestone

Modified Jan 03, 2025 11:51 GMT

Washington Capitals defenseman Jakob Chychrun played his 500th NHL game on Thursday night, becoming the ninth player and third defenseman from the 2016 NHL draft class to reach this milestone. Chychrun’s mother, Nancy, was quick to congratulate her son on his career milestone.

On Thursday, Nancy Chychrun took to Instagram and reposted an infographic listing her son’s career achievements and total tally of 241 points (87 goals, 154 assists) so far with Arizona, Ottawa and Washington. In the caption, she wrote:

“Proud of you always.”

Jakob Chychrun reposted her story on his own account with three white heart emojis.

The Caps defenseman is the son of Nancy and Jeff Chychrun, a former NHL defenseman who played eight seasons with teams including the Flyers and Penguins. His uncle, Luke Richardson, is also a former NHL defenseman and current coach. Jakob’s grandfather and sister Taylor currently live in Ottawa.

Jakob Chychrun claims he feels at home in Washington

Jakob Chychrun is having a great season with the Washington Capitals after being acquired in free agency for Nick Jensen and a draft pick. Through 32 games, the 26-year-old defenseman has scored 11 goals and 14 assists. In fact, Chychrun is leading the NHL in goals among defensemen so far this season.

Earlier this week, the Caps defenseman was asked if he feels at home in Washington and how his chemistry with the team has fared.

“It's been great. It's been awesome,” he said in response. “I love these guys in this room. From top to bottom this organization has been phenomenal. It’s been a great start to the year for this team so I’ve been enjoying it.”

He has also praised the Capitals’ supportive team culture and winning environment, which he says have helped him feel at home in D.C. and perform consistently.

“The whole group's been contributing, and that's what makes it fun, you know?,” Chychrun said. “ Guys are confident, making plays, finding each other and we're able to score some goals and win hockey games.

“It’s great, feeling like every night we got a chance to win. Even when we don’t have our best stuff we’re finding ways together as a group in this room, and it’s been a lot of fun.”

Jakob Chychrun is currently in the final season of a six-year, $27.6 million contract he signed with the Arizona Coyotes in November 2018, carrying an AAV of $4.6 million. This contract is set to expire after the 2024-2025 NHL season, and he will become an unrestricted free agent.

Edited by R. Elahi