At the moment, eight NHL teams are looking for a new head coach. That number could change – looking at you, Los Angeles Kings and New York Islanders. But in the meantime, there are eight vacancies that need to be filled.
Today, let’s play cupid. Below are my recommendations for each position available this year.
The Vancouver Canucks have appointed Peter Laviolette as their coach.
There’s significant pressure on this hiring. The Canucks’ management team has two years to demonstrate to Quinn Hughes that they are a successful organization—his contract ends in 2027.
Jim Rutherford requires someone trustworthy since he could lose his position if the Canucks struggle in the coming two years. Here comes Peter Laviolette—a coach who secured Rutherford a Stanley Cup victory with the Carolina Hurricanes back in 2006. Despite his unsuccessful stint with the New York Rangers during the 2024-25 season, Laviolette boasts an impressive history that makes him suitable for this role.
However, do not be astonished if:
Manny Malhotra.
Mike Sullivan – New York Rangers
A significant performance in New York City. Mike Sullivan made an impact on the major platform with Team USA during the 4 Nations Face-Off and led the Pittsburgh Penguins to win two Stanley Cups. Given his extensive background and talent for coaching top players, he seems like a solid match for the Rangers, who still have their championship hopes alive.
Furthermore, general manager Chris Drury ought to have the ability to present Sullivan with a larger contract than what all the current teams searching for a new coach can offer. This isn’t necessarily crucial for Sullivan; however, it serves as a significant advantage in negotiations to secure one of the top coaching talents available this season.
However, don’t be shocked if:
David Carle.
Philadelphia Flyers – Rick Tocchet
NHL insiders have been
connecting Rick Tocchet with the Flyers
Even as Tocchet continued to coach games for the Canucks, now that he’s available, Philadelphia has the opportunity to finalize a deal with him.
It also works in his favor that Tocchet previously played alongside both team president Keith Jones and general manager Daniel Briare. This connection, combined with Tocchet’s compatibility with Philadelphia’s tough style of play, makes this appointment an easy win.
However, don’t be shocked if:
Brad Shaw.
Edmonton Oilers – Jay Woodcroft
Considering Jay Woodcroft’s history of coaching and mentoring Connor McDavid, it appears to be a logical step for him to take on the role with Connor Bedard as well. Not all coaches possess the skills needed to successfully motivate and direct once-in-a-generation talents.
Woodcroft also spent over three years coaching Edmonton’s AHL-affiliated team. This experience, combined with his tenure as an assistant coach under Todd McLellan, demonstrates that Woodcroft possesses the necessary skills to guide a youthful squad. Additionally, it would be beneficial for him to appoint a solid defensive coordinator to complement his offensive expertise.
However, don’t be shocked if:
Anders Sörensen.
Pittsburgh Penguins – Manny Malhotra
Clearly, the link to the Maple Leafs exists since Manny Malhotra served as an assistant coach in Toronto for four years — with this role overlapping during three of those years when Kyle Dubas held the position of general manager.
Moreover, Malhotra boasts an impressive history of collaborating effectively with younger athletes and excels as a communicator. His experience makes him well-suited for a franchise undergoing changes—he brings extensive hockey expertise to mentor Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang, along with the interpersonal skills needed to nurture emerging talents alongside them.
However, do not be astonished if:
D.J. Smith.
Boston Bruins – Marco Sturm
The Bruins seem unwilling to engage in a lengthy rebuilding process, so they require someone who can step in, define their team’s character, and optimize performance among both rookies and seasoned pros. Marco Sturm fits this role well due to his extensive background. As an assistant coach alongside Todd McLellan with the Los Angeles Kings, he dealt with comparable challenges. Additionally, his proven track record in developing talent within the AHL reinforces his potential for nurturing younger athletes. His prior tenure with the Bruins further equips him with valuable insights into the local landscape.
Initially, I had David Carle listed, but eventually changed it to Sturm. Carle has a close relationship with Jim Montgomery, so he might avoid getting involved due to how the Bruins dealt with his mentor’s dismissal earlier this season.
However, don’t be shocked if:
Jay Pandolfo.
Seattle Kraken – Jay Leach
Elliotte Friedman reported that
Dan Bylsma’s firing
And Jason Botterill’s elevation to General Manager signaled the organization’s intent to adopt a more systematic strategy when selecting coaches. This shift could bring back an old acquaintance: Jay Leach. Known across the league as a formidable contender for various positions, Leach also boasts experience with the Kraken from his tenure as an assistant coach over three years. Moreover, his proven track record in nurturing younger players aligns perfectly with developing talents like Matt Beniers, Shane Wright, Kaapo Kakko, among others, who form part of Seattle’s promising roster.
However, don’t be shocked if:
Jessica Campbell.
Anaheim Ducks – Joel Quenneville
Pat Verbeek aims to secure a playoff spot next season. Joel Quenneville’s successful history on the ice could help achieve this objective. However, there is an evident concern. Still, since the NHL has cleared him, this might suffice for the Anaheim Ducks. This approval was also sufficient for both the Edmonton Oilers and Stan Bowman.
It wouldn’t come as a shock if the
Anaheim’s Interest in Quenneville Highlighted in Report
it was a temperature check—an occasion for the company to perform sentiment analysis on the prospective employee.
However, do not be shocked if:
Jeff Halpern.
Multiple prominent head coach positions are open this season. Any guesses on who might get hired? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
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