Just weeks after winning their first Stanley Cup in franchise’s history, Washington Capitals lost their head coach after Barry Trotz resigned on Monday. Trotz decided to part ways with the Capitals after two sides failed to come to an agreement about the new contract. Trotz became the first active coach since 1994 and New York Rangers’ Mike Keenan to leave a team in the same year after winning a Stanley Cup.
“After careful consideration and consultation with my family, I am officially announcing my resignation as Head Coach of the Washington Capitals,” – said Trotz in a statement. “When I came to Washington four years ago we had one goal in mind and that was to bring the Stanley Cup to the nation’s capital. We had an incredible run this season culminating with our players and staff achieving our goal and sharing the excitement with our fans. I would like to thank [Capitals owner] Mr. [Ted] Leonsis, [team president] Dick Patrick and [general manager] Brian MacLellan for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this great organization. I would also like to thank our players and staff who worked tirelessly every day to achieve our success.“
According to ESPN, Barry Trotz was wrapping up the last year of his contract but had a clause which would extend it for two years in case of a Stanley Cup win. Trotz, however, wasn’t satisfied with the terms of the contract, and reportedly asked for a five-year extension, something that Capitals didn’t want to commit to.
“We are obviously disappointed by Barry’s decision, but would like to thank Barry for all his efforts the past four years and for helping bring the Stanley Cup to Washington.” – said the Capitals in a statement. “Barry is a man of high character and integrity and we are grateful for his leadership and for all that he has done for our franchise.“
Barry Trotz leaves the Washington Capitals with a 205-89-34 record in four seasons, the best record in the NHL. It is speculated that Trotz is in line to become a new head coach of New York Islanders, the only team without a coach in the league.
