Behind the Bench: How Spencer Carbery Is Building the Capitals' Future

Written By Gina Anton

The Washington Capitals hired Spencer Carbery in 2023 to navigate one of the NHL's most difficult challenges: remaining competitive while preparing the franchise's next generation. Three seasons later, fresh off winning the 2025 Jack Adams Award, Carbery has proven he was the right choice. His ability to develop young talent, earn the trust of veteran leaders, and adapt his systems has kept Washington competitive while positioning the organization for the future.

A Coach Who Earned Every Opportunity

Unlike many NHL head coaches, Carbery didn't take a direct path to the league.

After a brief professional playing career, he began coaching with the ECHL's South Carolina Stingrays, quickly establishing himself as one of hockey's brightest coaching prospects. He led the Stingrays to multiple playoff appearances and earned ECHL Coach of the Year honors before moving to the AHL.

Carbery continued that success with the Hershey Bears, winning the 2021 AHL Coach of the Year Award after guiding the club through constant roster turnover caused by NHL call-ups.

That success led him to the NHL, where he joined Sheldon Keefe's staff with the Toronto Maple Leafs as an assistant coach. Working with one of the league's most dynamic offenses further expanded his coaching toolbox before Washington hired him as its head coach in 2023.

Developing the Next Generation

Player development has become Carbery's greatest strength.

As Washington balances its veteran core with a new wave of talent, players such as Aliaksei Protas and Martin Fehérváry have continued to grow under his guidance while veteran leaders have remained fully invested in the organization's direction.

That's a difficult balance to strike. Carbery has created an environment where younger players earn meaningful opportunities without disrupting the standards established by Washington's experienced core.

A Modern System Built Around His Players

Washington's identity has evolved under Carbery. The Capitals play with greater pace through the neutral zone, encourage their defensemen to activate offensively, and rely on structured puck support rather than individual heroics. Offensively, they've become more balanced while still maximizing Alex Ovechkin's strengths.

Defensively, Carbery emphasizes five-man responsibility, limiting odd-man rushes through strong positioning and aggressive back pressure before transitioning quickly once possession changes.

Rather than forcing players into a rigid system, Carbery has consistently adjusted his tactics to fit the personnel available, a quality that separates good coaches from great ones.

Culture Comes First

While Carbery's systems have helped Washington succeed, it's his leadership behind the scenes that has earned him the trust of the organization.

That became evident when the Capitals rewarded him with a multi-year contract extension this offseason. In announcing the deal, senior vice president and general manager Chris Patrick explained why the organization believes Carbery is the right person to lead its future.

"Since joining our organization, Spencer has played an important role in the development of many of our young players while also earning the respect and trust of our veteran leaders. His communication skills, strong relationship-building, and ability to connect with players at every stage of their careers have made him a great leader of our club... He has helped foster a positive and accountable culture within our team, creating an environment where players can grow and succeed."

Patrick's comments reflect what has defined Carbery's tenure: his ability to earn trust, develop talent, and build a culture where players are expected to improve.

Expectations for 2026-27

The Capitals remain one of the NHL's most intriguing teams.

Alex Ovechkin continues to add to his legendary career, but Washington's long-term success increasingly depends on the development of its emerging core. Rather than overseeing a rebuild, Carbery has guided a transition, building a team rooted in development, accountability, and adaptability.

If his first three seasons are any indication, the Capitals have already found the coach to lead their next era.