Montreal, QC – Washington Capitals forward Dylan Strome experienced a whirlwind of emotions during Thursday night's game against the Montreal Canadiens. While his team secured an 8-4 victory, Strome's focus was divided as he received news that his wife, Tayler, had gone into labor back in Washington.
Strome learned after warmups that Tayler was at the hospital. Despite the anticipation of their third child's arrival in early December, Sutton Kimberley Strome decided to make an early entrance. She was born at 7:30 PM, during the first period of the game. Strome and his wife Tayler already have two daughters, Weslie, 4, and Emerson, 2.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Strome spoke to the media after the game, sharing the news with a mix of pride and vulnerability. "My warrior of a wife had our third daughter while we were on the ice," Strome said, his voice filled with emotion. "I'm really proud of her. It's tough. You obviously want to be there for the birth of your children, (we) didn't know it was coming this soon, but can't wait to go see her". He acknowledged the difficulty of being away from his family, especially during such a significant moment. "It's not easy. We go on the road a lot, and our women go through a lot; their bodies change so much. And just for her to do that herself is unbelievable,” Strome said.
Despite the personal turmoil, Strome delivered a strong performance on the ice, recording three assists in the Capitals' win. Coach Spencer Carbery acknowledged Strome's professionalism, noting, "He is a hockey player through and through". Strome's teammates were also aware of the situation and offered their support throughout the night. Strome said that he and Jakob Chychrun said a prayer before the game and that his teammates knew what was going on.
Tayler Strome reposted the clip of Dylan speaking to reporters after the game to her Instagram story, and called him the 'best dad'.
Looking ahead, Strome is eager to return home to Washington to be with his wife and meet his newborn daughter. The Capitals are scheduled to face the Tampa Bay Lightning at home on Saturday. The organization has confirmed that both Tayler and Sutton are doing well.
