Bryce Harper goes with hometown in Golden Knights-Capitals clash

In a Stanley Cup final showdown between his hometown and adopted city, Bryce Harper has made it clear which team he’s throwing his allegiance behind as the much-anticipated series gets going Monday night.

And it’s not the one from Washington.

Harper has been a staunch supporter of the expansion Golden Knights since Day 1 and the Nationals slugger isn’t going to waver heading into the final, he said on recent appearance on NHL Network.

“I’m definitely happy for the Caps, a lot of great players on that team as well. I love Holtby, he’s one of my favourite players. You know, Ovi of course, Carlson, Oshie, I mean what a great club they got, but I was born and raised in Las Vegas and I support the Golden Knights and it’s going to be a lot of fun,” Harper said.

“I’m just glad I’m not on the ice and not getting hit by Tom Wilson, cause he hits pretty hard.”

Harper isn’t just hopping on the bandwagon as Vegas’ miracle run has marched on, either. He’s put his passion for the team on full display while cheering on the first “favourite team he’s ever had” in person and on TV.

“I’ve been able to get to a lot of games this year when I’ve been home, probably about 25-30 games. You know, being able to go watch — It’s such a fun sport to watch. I mean It’s super quick on the ice and guys are playing hard and doing it right out there. So being able to support them from afar, it’s tough. Being up at one o’clock in the morning watching them — being on that baseball schedule I guess helps out a little bit — but it’s a lot of fun to be able to watch them.”

With the Nationals having wrapped up a Memorial Day afternoon contest Monday, Harper will have all eyes, ears and hopes on deck in time for Game 1.

His white Marchessault No. 81 jersey is washed and ready to go, too.

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