The Washington Capitals miserable season is finally over and changes are coming.
Courtesy: Washington Post
GM George McPhee met with ownership and Team President, Dick Patrick, and will meet again as early as this afternoon. Both McPhee and Head Coach Adam Oates will NOT meet with the press, according to sources, which can only lead to speculation that both GMGM and Oates will not be asked to return for next season.
It’s rumored that the Caps top-brass is interested in former Head Coach of the Nashville Predators, Barry Trotz, who was just recently asked to step down as the Preds did not renew his contract. Trozt was part of the Capitals organization from 1989-1997 as an Assistant Coach to the Baltimore Skipjacks and Head Coach of the Portland Pirates. Trotz was the longest tenured coach in the NHL, with 15 years, when he was let go by the Predators.
The Caps are rumored to be clearing house this summer, starting with management and the coaching staff, but what about the players?
Ovechkin rumors have been going crazy recently from having him on the trading block to having him deport himself to the KHL. In reality, the KHL could be on the table if he really wanted to give up so easily and end his contract with the Capitals. Caps ownership would also have to approve of him ending his contract, and I can’t see Big Ted doing so just yet.
The only real trade bait at this point is Mike Green. He’s the only core player who might not be around next season, but someone will really have to take a chance on his contract as his play has suffered from injuries. A change of scenery might be a good thing for him though. However, if the Caps get Barry Trotz, they might keep Green around a little longer.
Lots to talk about!
More to come…
