Bruce Cassidy, recently dismissed from his coaching position, has revealed his eagerness to explore opportunities with two NHL franchises that have expressed interest: the Edmonton Oilers and the Los Angeles Kings.
During an interview on the “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast, Cassidy shared his perspective on his current situation, acknowledging that while his contract with his former team has been terminated, NHL bylaws and non-compete clauses are preventing him from immediately accepting a new coaching role. He explained that he is still bound by his previous contract until the end of the next season, and any agreement to coach elsewhere would require permission from his former team, effectively meaning he would not be paid by his former employer during that period.
“It’s upsetting,” Cassidy admitted, expressing his frustration with the inability to pursue new coaching prospects. He clarified that his contract includes clauses that restrict him from signing with another team without prior consent. He elaborated that while he understands the rationale behind such clauses, which are likely in place to prevent coaches from leaving mid-season for better opportunities, it’s currently hindering his ability to return to coaching.
“I want to go to work. I’m a hockey coach,” Cassidy stated emphatically, conveying his strong desire to resume his career. He confirmed that two teams, now publicly known, have sought his permission to speak with him, and he is keen to engage in those conversations.
The current contractual stipulations mean that Cassidy cannot simply forfeit his salary and join another team immediately. This situation highlights a complex aspect of NHL coaching contracts, where a coach’s ability to find new employment after termination can be significantly delayed by clauses designed to protect the former team.
Bruce Cassidy’s Desire to Coach
Bruce Cassidy is keen to resume his coaching career and is particularly interested in discussing potential opportunities with the Edmonton Oilers and the Los Angeles Kings. He expressed his disappointment with the restrictions imposed by his current contract, which prevent him from accepting a new role until his existing contract expires or his former team grants permission.
Contractual Hurdles
Cassidy explained that despite his contract being terminated, NHL bylaws and non-compete clauses are in effect. These clauses mean he cannot be employed by another team until his current contract officially ends, which is at the conclusion of the next season. He noted that while he understands the purpose of such clauses, they are currently preventing him from pursuing his passion for coaching.
Interest from NHL Teams
It has become public knowledge that two NHL teams have inquired about speaking with Cassidy. He stated his clear intention to talk with these teams, emphasizing his strong desire to return to coaching.
Bruce Cassidy Wants to Talk to the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings
Former NHL coach Bruce Cassidy has expressed his desire to speak with the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings about potential coaching opportunities. He revealed that contractual clauses are currently preventing him from accepting a new role immediately after his dismissal.
“It’s upsetting,” Cassidy stated on the “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast. “I’m going to be honest, because once you’re fired, you know your contracts basically terminated.” However, he explained that NHL bylaws and non-compete clauses mean he cannot resign and work for another team without permission from his former club, and his current contract runs until the end of next season.
Cassidy acknowledged that two teams have publicly asked for permission to speak with him, and he is eager to do so. “I want to go to work. I’m a hockey coach,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to returning to the sport.
English Translation and Rephrasing:
Bruce Cassidy Wishes to Engage with Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings
Bruce Cassidy, a recently discharged hockey coach, has conveyed his aspiration to connect with the Edmonton Oilers and the Los Angeles Kings, both of whom have shown interest in his services. He elaborated on the complexities of his contractual situation, explaining that despite his termination, league regulations and non-compete agreements are currently barring him from immediately accepting a new coaching position.
Speaking on the “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast, Cassidy voiced his disappointment, stating, “It’s upsetting.” He clarified that his current contract, even though he has been let go, contains provisions that prevent him from signing with another team without explicit consent from his former employer. This restriction, he noted, extends until the end of the following season.
Cassidy confirmed that it is now public knowledge that two NHL franchises have requested permission to interview him. He expressed a strong desire to have these conversations and return to the profession he is passionate about. “I want to go to work. I’m a hockey coach,” he asserted.
The situation highlights the intricate nature of NHL coaching contracts, where a coach’s immediate future employment can be subject to lengthy delays due to clauses designed to protect the interests of the team that has terminated their services.
