Capitals fire assistant coach after investigation into conduct

The Washington Capitals fired assistant coach Mitch Love on Sunday after the NHL investigated allegations about his personal conduct.

"Mitch Love has been relieved of his duties as an assistant coach, effective immediately," the Capitals said in a statement. "This decision follows the findings of an NHL-led investigation into past allegations. The organization is committed to maintaining the highest standards of conduct and accountability."

The team did not specify the nature of the allegations, but NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported Sunday that the league's investigation concerned domestic abuse, and it suspended Love for the full 2025-26 season.

The Capitals placed Love on leave Sept. 14 after the NHL reportedly began its investigation during the summer.

Love interviewed for head-coaching vacancies with the Boston Bruins and Pittsburgh Penguins last summer, and those teams -- as well as the league office -- received letters detailing allegations about Love's personal conduct, ESPN reported.

Love, 41, joined the Capitals' coaching staff in June 2023 after Spencer Carbery was hired as head coach.

Love didn't reach the NHL level as a player but became a coach after a long minor league career. He coached at the junior level in the Western Hockey League before working in the Calgary Flames' system, including as head coach of their AHL affiliate, the Stockton Heat.

--Field Level Media