Former Capitals head coach Todd Reirden released a statement after he and the team parted ways on Sunday.
Reirden spent six seasons with the Capitals – the first four as an assistant under Barry Trotz and the final two as the team’s head coach. Reirden’s Capitals lost in the first round of the playoffs two consecutive seasons after Trotz left for the Islanders.
“I want to thank the Washington Capitals organization for allowing me an opportunity to coach this team, our players for their effort and trust, and the fantastic fanbase for their support not only of me but also for my family,” Reirden said. “While I’m disappointed that we could not bring another championship to DC, I will always cherish my six years with this organization and our memorable run in 2018. I wish this team nothing but success in the future.”
Brian MacLellan thanked Reirden for his work during a press conference explaining the firing on Sunday.
“First of all, Todd’s done a great job for our organization,” MacLellan said. “He’s been a big part of the success we’ve had over the last six years. Great developer of defensemen. Great defensive coach. Did a lot of work on our power play as an assistant coach. He’s done a great job for us. Sometimes it’s difficult for assistant coaches to take over teams they’ve been in a system with.”
Reirden will now be one of several coaches with NHL head coaching experience available in the offseason.
Todd Reirden was a great dude. I hope he gets another chance quickly in the NHL as an assistant or head coach. pic.twitter.com/oAYCkDwwZC
— Ian Oland (@ianoland) August 23, 2020
Headline photo: Elizabeth Kong/RMNB
