The NHL coaching carousel is in full swing, with several teams navigating potential leadership changes and roster adjustments. While the Vegas Golden Knights are reportedly blocking other teams from speaking with recently fired coach Bruce Cassidy, the Edmonton Oilers are moving forward with their search, having already had initial discussions with Craig Berube.
Vegas Golden Knights Restrict Bruce Cassidy’s Availability
Reports indicate that the Vegas Golden Knights have denied the Los Angeles Kings permission to interview Bruce Cassidy for their coaching vacancy. As of Sunday night, it was not believed that the Toronto Maple Leafs had formally requested permission to speak with Cassidy.
Edmonton Oilers Focus on Craig Berube, Not Cassidy
In Edmonton, the Oilers have reportedly engaged in initial conversations between general manager Stan Bowman and potential candidate Craig Berube, with a formal interview anticipated. However, similar to the Kings, the Oilers had not received permission to speak with Bruce Cassidy as of Sunday night.
Other NHL Rumor Quick Hits
- Edmonton Oilers: Beyond their coaching search, the Oilers are looking to bolster their defense, acquire a top-six winger, a third-line center, and add grit to their fourth line. Defenseman Darnell Nurse is a player who could be explored via the trade market, with the San Jose Sharks potentially being a landing spot.
- Front Office Moves: The Oilers, Vancouver Canucks, and New York Islanders may see additional front office changes this offseason.
- Winnipeg Jets: There is considerable league-wide interest in Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck. The team’s focus internally is on improving their second line.
- New Jersey Devils: The Devils are expected to sign their 2024 first-round pick, defenseman Anton Silayev (10th overall), to his entry-level contract, likely in early June.
- St. Louis Blues & Florida Panthers: St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington, forward Jordan Kyrou, and defenseman Colton Parayko are names expected to be in the rumor mill. If Sergei Bobrovsky does not re-sign with the Florida Panthers, Binnington could emerge as an option for Florida.
- Dallas Stars: With approximately $11 million in cap space, the Stars face the challenge of re-signing pending RFA Jason Robertson, who is reportedly seeking around $12 million. Defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin and his $3.25 million contract may also be made available for trade again.
- Calgary Flames: Forward Blake Coleman and Morgan Frost are players to monitor regarding potential moves involving the Calgary Flames.
