Spencer Carbery Wins Jack Adams Award in Surprise Ceremony

ARLINGTON, Va. – Spencer Carbery was caught off guard on Saturday when he was surprised with the Jack Adams Award, recognizing him as the NHL’s top coach. The Washington Capitals head coach thought he was scheduled for a television interview but instead received the prestigious honor, awarded by the NHL Broadcasters’ Association.

During a live interview with Capitals play-by-play announcer Joe Beninati, Carbery discussed the Capitals’ successful season, which saw them finish with a remarkable 51-22-9 record and clinch the top spot in the Eastern Conference. After the interview concluded, Beninati revealed that special guests were in the studio to congratulate him.

Standing in disbelief, Carbery was met by family members, including his wife, Casey, and their two children, Hudson and Vivian, who traveled from various parts of the continent to support him. “How did everyone travel here? All corners of the continent… For them to come to D.C. and celebrate this moment with me, I’ll never forget that,” Carbery said.

In just his second year as head coach, Carbery led the Capitals to significant improvements, guiding the team to a 11-win increase from the previous season. They also excelled in various statistics, finishing second in goals per game and boasting a solid penalty kill percentage.

Carbery acknowledged the support of his staff and players, stating, “In the ultimate team sport, as a coach, you hate things that direct attention toward you. Our support staff and obviously our players, all those people deserve so much credit for this award.” This year marked a significant milestone for Carbery, as he became the youngest coach to win the award since Dan Bylsma in 2011.

Additionally, this award has put Carbery in an elite group; he is the first person to win Coach of the Year honors in the NHL, AHL, and ECHL. The Capitals’ journey this season has been inspiring, culminating in Carbery’s surprise victory and celebration surrounded by family.