The Los Angeles Kings’ coaching search appears to be narrowing down to two primary candidates: D.J. Smith and Jay Woodcroft. Elliotte Friedman reported on 32 Thoughts: The Podcast that while other names might be in consideration, Smith and Woodcroft are the most prominent. Smith has recently returned from the World Championships, and his next steps, along with Ken Holland’s decisions, will be watched closely.
Regarding the Colorado Avalanche, Joe Sakic is expected to temporarily fill the General Manager role. There has been speculation linking former Los Angeles Kings GM and ex-Avs defenseman Rob Blake to the position. However, Darren Dreger suggests that Blake may not be eager to return to a GM role just yet. Having recently stepped away from management in Los Angeles, Blake has been out of the daily grind for a while. While he might consider a “perfect opportunity,” it’s not perceived that he’s actively seeking a new GM position soon. Colorado fans, however, might see the former defenseman as an ideal fit for the Avalanche’s GM role or to assist Sakic, who is also handling presidential duties.
In another development, Brendan Gallagher is likely to receive permission to speak with other teams to gauge interest, if he hasn’t already. The challenge lies in finding not only a team willing to take him on for the final year of his contract but also one where he can be a valuable, day-to-day contributor to the roster. This search for the right fit could prove complicated for some clubs.
English Translation:
The Los Angeles Kings’ coaching search appears to be narrowing down to two primary candidates: D.J. Smith and Jay Woodcroft. Elliotte Friedman reported on 32 Thoughts: The Podcast that while other names might be in consideration, Smith and Woodcroft are the most prominent. Smith has recently returned from the World Championships, and his next steps, along with Ken Holland’s decisions, will be watched closely.
Regarding the Colorado Avalanche, Joe Sakic is expected to temporarily fill the General Manager role. There has been speculation linking former Los Angeles Kings GM and ex-Avs defenseman Rob Blake to the position. However, Darren Dreger suggests that Blake may not be eager to return to a GM role just yet. Having recently stepped away from management in Los Angeles, Blake has been out of the daily grind for a while. While he might consider a “perfect opportunity,” it’s not perceived that he’s actively seeking a new GM position soon. Colorado fans, however, might see the former defenseman as an ideal fit for the Avalanche’s GM role or to assist Sakic, who is also handling presidential duties.
In another development, Brendan Gallagher is likely to receive permission to speak with other teams to gauge interest, if he hasn’t already. The challenge lies in finding not only a team willing to take him on for the final year of his contract but also one where he can be a valuable, day-to-day contributor to the roster. This search for the right fit could prove complicated for some clubs.
