Deerfield's Reirden Fired By NHL's Washington Capitals

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Following a disappointing exit from the National Hockey League playoffs last week, the Washington Capitals announced Sunday they have parted ways with head coach Todd Reirden. The Deerfield native and former player had been at the helm since 2018.

"We have higher expectations for our team, and we felt a fresh approach in leadership was necessary," Brian MacLellan, the team's general manager, said in a statement. "We would like to thank Todd for all of his hard work and efforts with our organization. Todd has been a big part of our team for more than half a decade, including our Stanley Cup run in 2018, and we wish him and his family all the best moving forward."

The move comes three days after the Capitals were knocked out of the Stanley Cup playoffs in five games by the New York Islanders. Despite finishing first in the NHL's Metropolitan Division, Washington lost in the first-round of the playoffs for the second straight season.

Reirden, 49, who graduated from Deerfield High School, played in the league sporadically from 1994-2007, including stints with the Edmonton Oilers, St. Louis Blues, Atlanta Thrashers and Phoenix Coyotes.