Overview | Schedule | Roster | Line Combinations |Stats | Salary Cap
Prospects
| History | Management | Goaltending | Season Preview

The Washington Capitals joined the NHL for the 1974-75 season alongside the Kansas City Scouts. They won eight games in their first season, which remains the fewest in a season of at least 70 games. It took until their ninth season for them to reach the postseason but they have been a winning franchise in most seasons since. The 1997-98 season ended in their first Stanley Cup Final appearance, which they lost to the Detroit Red Wings, and the Alex Ovechkin era finally resulted in the franchise’s first Stanley Cup, which they won in 2018.

SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE TO OUR WASHINGTON CAPITALS SUBSTACK NEWSLETTER

 

Capitals FAQ

What year were the Washington Capitals founded?

The Washington Capitals joined the NHL for the 1974-75 season.

When did the Washington Capitals play their first game?

The Washington Capitals played their first game on Oct. 9, 1974, against the New York Rangers, which they lost 6-3.

Who is the current head coach of the Washington Capitals?

Spencer Carbery is the current head coach for the Washington Capitals.