Spencer Carbery Makes History: Wins Jack Adams Award Across All Professional Levels
June 7, 2025
On June 7, 2025, the NHL announced that Spencer Carbery has won the prestigious Jack Adams Award, recognizing him as the top coach in the league.
The Capitals saw significant improvements this season, particularly after adding key players like Jakob Chychrun and Pierre-Luc Dubois, which contributed to their overall success.
Under Carbery's leadership, the Capitals excelled in various statistics, including leading the league in comeback wins and ranking highly in road points and penalty killing efficiency.
Young players thrived as well, with Aliaksei Protas scoring 30 goals compared to just six the previous season, and Connor McMichael achieving 26 goals and 31 assists.
The 2025 NHL Awards ceremony, where Carbery and other winners will be honored, is scheduled to air on June 12, 2025, at 6 p.m. ET.
Despite predictions of a challenging season, the Capitals increased their point total by 20 from the previous year, showcasing the effectiveness of Carbery's coaching.
Fans reacted on social media following the announcement, with some questioning the decision to award Carbery over other candidates like Craig Berube, while others were surprised by the voting results.
Carbery made history by becoming the first coach to win this award at all three professional levels: ECHL, AHL, and NHL, leading the Washington Capitals to a remarkable 51-22-9 record and securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference.
A highlight of the season was Alex Ovechkin breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal-scoring record, scoring 44 goals in just 65 games, which underscored the team's playoff-contending performance.
Carbery expressed gratitude towards his players and staff during the announcement, stating he was surprised by the award and touched by the support from his family.
Hired in May 2023, Carbery aimed to rejuvenate the Capitals' performance after succeeding Peter Laviolette, and he successfully integrated new players while improving both offensive and defensive aspects of the team.
The Jack Adams Award often sparks debate regarding deserving candidates, and this year was no exception, with various opinions on the results.
Summary based on 32 sources
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Sources

The Washington Post • Jun 7, 2025
Washington Capitals' Spencer Carbery wins the Jack Adams Award as NHL coach of the year
Reuters • Jun 7, 2025
Capitals coach Spencer Carbery wins Jack Adams Award
AP News • Jun 7, 2025
Capitals coach Spencer Carbery wins Jack Adams Award | AP News
Global News • Jun 7, 2025
Spencer Carbery named winner of NHL’s Jack Adams Award