WASHINGTON (AP) — The new Washington Capitals coach says the team has what it needs to compete for a Stanley Cup despite missing the playoffs this season.

Barry Trotz said Tuesday that he doesn’t see why the Capitals can’t be in the mix right away if they can forge a better identity.

The longtime Nashville Predators coach was introduced by the Capitals on Tuesday, along with new general manager Brian MacLellan.

Trotz says he plans to meet with star forward Alex Ovechkin to talk about the team’s direction.

Says Trotz: “My job as a coach is to find a way to allow Alex and the other players to reach their potential as a group.” Trotz compared the team to a kindergarten class, where kids are graded by how well they play with others.

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