The Washington Capitals saw their 50th anniversary season come to a close on Thursday night. The Caps fell 3-1 in Game 5 of their second-round series against the Carolina Hurricanes, ending a playoff run that had much higher ambitions.
After the loss, Capitals owner Ted Leonsis reflected on the team’s season on social media. Leonsis has owned the club for over half its existence, officially 26 years in early July.
“Last night marked the end of the @Capitals 50th anniversary season,” Leonsis wrote. “We had hoped for a different ending to our playoff run and feel the disappointment alongside our players and fans. We hope to end every season with the Stanley Cup… it’s never easy to fall short of that goal.
“We hold our disappointment in one hand, and celebrate what was a truly special season for this franchise in the other. We kicked off last October by celebrating the team’s 50th anniversary – bringing together current and former players to honor the incredible legacy of the franchise, our passionate fans, and the vibrant community that has supported us every step of the way.”
Leonsis also highlighted the hockey history Alex Ovechkin achieved during the regular season. Ovechkin broke Wayne Gretzky’s once thought unbreakable all-time goals record with a power-play goal against the New York Islanders on April 6.
“@ovi8 made history by breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time scoring record – cementing his place as a true @NHL and DC icon, having dedicated his entire career to this team and city,” Leonsis wrote.
The Capitals finished atop the Eastern Conference a year after barely sneaking into the playoffs on the final day of the 2023-24 season. The club collected 111 standings points via their 51-22-9 record, the team’s first 50-win season since the 2016-17 campaign.
“Thanks to smart, strategic acquisitions by our front office led by Brian MacLellan and Chris Patrick, and under our head coach Under Coach Spencer Carbery’s leadership, young players and veterans stepped up to the challenge – driving the team forward and advancing to the second round of the playoffs in front of loyal fans that took in every moment,” Leonsis wrote. “Our fans shattered viewership records on @MonSportsNet, further demonstrating the Caps’ deep cultural impact on the DMV and the unwavering dedication of our Caps fanbase.
“We’re incredibly proud of our players, coaches, staff, and front office for their efforts… the Capitals have secured a spot in the playoffs in 16 of the last 18 seasons, proving why they remain one of the NHL’s most resilient and dynamic franchises. With a strong mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talent, the future looks bright, and we are optimistic about what’s ahead.”
Leonsis and Monumental will now turn their attention to the upgrades planned for Capital One Arena. Last December, MSE laid out a six-phase construction plan for the $800 million renovations, which included a summer 2025 phase focusing on new athlete spaces and the completion of premium-level club and suite access.
Phase 3 of the plans, the preparation for exterior building work and the expansion of concessions, is set to begin during the 2025-26 season.
“A heartfelt thank you to the Capitals for an unforgettable season, and thank you to the fans for your support, energy, and passion,” Leonsis finished. “We look forward to welcoming you back to the ice with the Caps in October.”
