Washington Capitals Head Coach Barry Trotz Is Stepping Down

The Washington Capitals just had their greatest year in franchise history, winning their first-ever Stanley Cup in incredible fashion. The Caps beat the Vegas Knights, 4-1, in the Stanley Cup Final. The celebration that has followed since has been awesome.

The Capitals now have major franchise issues to take care of moving forward, though. It looks like Washington could be searching for a new head coach.

According to a new report by Elliotte Friedman, the team's head coach, Barry Trotz, is stepping down.

"We had believed Trotz was a free agent this summer. That’s not correct. There was a two-year extension if he won the Cup in WASH. But, as coaches’ contracts have exploded in value, it was below the current market. Both sides tried to negotiate an extension...." Friedman reports.

"But they could not come to terms. Trotz is now a free agent, as WASH will grant permission to other teams who want to talk to him."

Trotz has since released a statement:

This is fairly stunning news for the Capitals franchise. You would think Washington would do everything it could to retain its Stanley Cup winning head coach.

Stay tuned for more updates on Trotz' status.

Update: The Capitals have released a full statement:

"Barry Trotz informed the organization today of his decision to resign as head coach of the Washington Capitals. 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. 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."