Struggling Capitals Fire Hanlon

Despite spending money on free agents and the owner's claim before training camp that "the rebuild is over," the Washington Capitals' record hasn't improved this year - and it cost coach Glen Hanlon his job. The Caps, with a league-low 13 points in 21 games, today replaced Hanlon on an interim basis with the coach of their minor-league affiliate.

The team's 5-1 home loss last night was its ninth in ten games. GM George McPhee, who did not divulge coaching plans beyond Bruce Boudreau's interim status, said Hanlon understood the change had to be made. Boudreau, who coached several current Capitals in the minors, has a reputation as a yeller, reports the Washington Post—in stark contrast to the more reserved Hanlon. (More Washington Capitals stories.)