Washington is known nationally for its politics, and the division that creates. But the Capitals' championship parade put focus on the local residents, and a city united by its team's title run. USA TODAY Sports
Barry Trotz, fresh off leading the Washington Capitals to their first Stanley Cup, has resigned as head coach, the team announced Monday.
"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," the Capitals said 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."
The Toronto Maple Leafs’ Mike Babcock is the highest-paid coach in the NHL at $6.25 million, and there was an expectation that Trotz should be paid in that neighborhood.
Trotz immediately becomes the best available head coach, though the New York Islanders are the only team with a vacancy.
The 55-year-old spent the last four seasons in Washington, leading the Capitals to the playoffs in all four seasons and a Stanley Cup, also his first, this season.
Associate coach Todd Reirden, whom the team did not allow to interview for other jobs last summer, is expected to be the next Capitals' head coach.
