The Washington Capitals immediately terminated assistant coach Mitch Love on Sunday following the conclusion of a months-long investigation into past personal conduct. The NHL also suspended Love for one year.
Love interviewed for several head coaching positions, including with the Pittsburgh Penguins, and was considered a favorite, but as time passed, Love wasn’t hired.
The Penguins eventually hired Dan Muse, and other teams hired other candidates. The league and several teams reportedly received letters that detailed the past allegations, and the NHL began its investigation.
“While I am disappointed by and disagree with the NHL’s decision, I respect the process and accept both the league’s findings and the Capitals’ decision. I will continue to openly cooperate through the process. That said, I fully deny the allegations against me and look forward to returning to the sport I love as soon as possible.”
The Capitals placed Love on leave Sept. 14 pending the results of the now-completed investigation.
“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 allegations predated his tenure with the Capitals, but they remain unspecified. Love two years as the head coach of the Calgary Flames’ AHL affiliates and time in the WHL.
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