For the first time since 1994, a NHL head coach has left his team after winning the Stanley Cup.
Trotz joined the Capitals in 2014, leading them to four consecutive postseason appearances. The last, of course, resulted in a Stanley Cup victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. So why would a coach coming off of a championship choose to leave?
Money.
According to TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, Trotz’ contract stated that he could sign a two-year extension with a $300,000 increase from his original $1.5 salary. But when you consider Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock is receiving a whoppin’ $8 million per year (not to mention the two have won the same amount of Cups), $1.8 million just doesn’t seem to be the right price.
So, with his resignation has come speculation. Hockey fans from all over are starting to make predictions for where the 55-year-old will land next. Here’s what they had to say.
Wonder if Islanders fans want Trotz’ services…
Caps nation also reacted to the move. Many expressed their gratitude but a good chunk also expressed their frustration regarding his departure.
After the news leaked, the Capitals released an emotional statement, thanking Trotz for his contributions to the organization.
Free agency is just around the corner, but Trotz’ next job is sure to be one of the more popular topics of the summer.
