From NHL's most futile expansion team to Stanley Cup champions

Countries & Cities · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In their 1974–75 inaugural season, the Washington Capitals set records for futility that still stand today. After decades of struggling and facing relocation, the franchise transformed from a winless cellar-dweller into a powerhouse, eventually capturing their first Stanley Cup in 2018.

The Washington Capitals' entry into the NHL was marked by historic struggle. During their 1974–75 inaugural season, the team set records for futility that remain in the record books, including a .131 winning percentage—the worst in NHL history. They finished the season with just 8 wins and 21 points, a total that was only half that of their fellow expansion team, the Kansas City Scouts. The team's struggles were so severe that head coach Jim Anderson famously remarked that he would rather find out his wife was cheating than continue losing like that.

The franchise's survival was nearly cut short in the early 1980s. Facing heavy financial losses, owner Abe Pollin considered relocating the team or merging them with the New Jersey Devils. It was only through a combination of a 'Save the Caps' fan campaign and a tax break from the Prince George's County council that the team remained in Washington. This stability allowed for a dramatic turnaround beginning in 1982, when the acquisition of players like Rod Langway and the drafting of Scott Stevens helped the team reach its first playoff appearance.

The modern era of the Capitals was defined by a revitalization under owner Ted Leonsis. By drafting star talents such as Alexander Ovechkin and Nicklas Bäckström, the team moved from the fringes of the league to the top of the standings. They secured three Presidents' Trophies (2009–10, 2015–16, and 2016–17) and reached the Stanley Cup Final in 1998 and 2018. Their journey culminated in the 2018 championship, where they defeated the Vegas Golden Knights in five games to secure the franchise's first Stanley Cup title.

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