Scherzer drops puck, Eaton motivates Capitals

The Washington Capitals got a little extra motivation prior to their contest against the New York Rangers on Friday night. Two seasons after winning the Stanley Cup, the Caps were paid a visit by two members of the National League champion Washington Nationals, who are seeking their first World Series championship.

Max Scherzer and Adam Eaton were special guests at Capital One Arena, where Scherzer dropped the puck for the ceremonial faceoff, and Eaton gave a pregame locker-room speech to get the team fired up.

Scherzer walked a red carpet to get to center ice, where he was met by Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin. For the ceremonial dropping of the puck, Scherzer had a trick up his sleeve -- or in his back pocket. He changed out the puck for a baseball, with which he then did the honors.

Eaton's motivational speech included a reference to New York in two sports. He said the Rangers "don't know what the heck is gonna hit them," to cheers from the squad. He then added, "We're looking to do the same [if we play the Yankees in the World Series]. ... We're going to give it to them right off the bat."

Eaton then announced the starting lineup before leading the players out to the rink.

Juan Soto also took in the game, and got in a little Baby Shark chomping.