There’s considerable speculation about where former Vegas Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy will make his return to the NHL bench. During a recent edition of TFP Hotstove on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio, a discussion involving Ryan Paton, Dennis Bernstein, and Dave Pagnotta highlighted potential opportunities for Cassidy.
Pagnotta indicated that while the Edmonton Oilers remain a strong possibility, they are not the only team considering Cassidy. The Oilers face a significant offseason with numerous decisions to make regarding their roster and coaching staff. A coaching change is just one piece of the puzzle for the team.
The Los Angeles Kings are also mentioned as a potential suitor. Although DJ Smith is currently serving as interim head coach, he is also being considered for the permanent position. Bernstein suggested that Cassidy would represent an upgrade for the Kings, even acknowledging that the team performed better under Smith during the regular season against a weaker schedule. However, Cassidy’s playoff resume is seen as superior.
The overall coaching market is expected to see movement, not just for head coaching positions but also for assistant coaches and front-office personnel, as contracts expire and teams re-evaluate their strategies.
English Translation:
There is significant speculation surrounding former Vegas Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy’s next role in the NHL. On a recent episode of TFP Hotstove on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio, hosts Ryan Paton, Dennis Bernstein, and Dave Pagnotta discussed Cassidy’s potential coaching destinations.
Pagnotta noted that the Edmonton Oilers are a serious contender, but Cassidy’s options extend beyond them. The Oilers are facing a crucial offseason with many decisions to make about their roster and coaching staff, and a new coach is just one part of their rebuilding process.
The Los Angeles Kings have also been identified as a potential landing spot. While DJ Smith is currently the interim head coach, he is also in contention for the full-time job. Bernstein suggested that Cassidy would be an improvement for the Kings, even though the team saw better regular-season results under Smith against weaker opponents. However, Cassidy’s playoff track record is considered stronger.
The NHL coaching landscape is anticipated to undergo changes in the coming months, with opportunities expected not only for head coaches but also for assistant coaches and front-office staff as contracts expire and teams reassess their approaches.