Being an NHL coach is a privileged position, despite the pressure. Currently, there are seven vacancies in the league as teams look for new direction and leadership. This year`s coaching market is particularly intriguing, presenting exciting opportunities with promising young teams as well as historic `Original Six` franchises.
Notable coaches currently available include two-time Stanley Cup winner Mike Sullivan (formerly of the Pittsburgh Penguins) and three-time champion Joel Quenneville (reinstated by the NHL after a period of ineligibility related to his handling of a 2010 incident in Chicago). College coach David Carle (Denver Pioneers) and former Edmonton Oilers coach Jay Woodcroft are also potential candidates.
While the destinations for these and other candidates are yet to be determined, several attractive positions are open. Let`s examine each team currently seeking a head coach.
Evaluating the Open Positions
Anaheim Ducks
This role is highly appealing due to a roster filled with young talent and a strong prospect pool. Located in attractive Orange County, the team made a significant 21-point improvement last season. The new coach will face pressure to contend for a playoff spot as early as next year, a challenge that led to Greg Cronin`s departure after just two seasons under General Manager Pat Verbeek. Joel Quenneville has been mentioned as a potential fit here.
Boston Bruins
Looking to rebound, Boston aims to remain competitive through a re-tooling phase, with expectations of being a strong team again by 2025-26. Their success hinges on the health of key defensemen Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm, and a return to form for goaltender Jeremy Swayman after a challenging season. Star forward David Pastrnak is a consistent high-point producer. Core players like Pastrnak, McAvoy, and Swayman are in their 20s (Lindholm is 31). Expect the team to be active in the off-season market. Former Bruins coach and Massachusetts native Mike Sullivan is a prominent candidate.
Chicago Blackhawks
While playoff expectations for next season might be lower than in Anaheim, there`s a sense of urgency in Chicago. Though not comparable to their past dynasty, the team has exciting elements. Connor Bedard, despite perhaps not meeting unreasonable initial expectations in his first two seasons, remains a crucial cornerstone. Promising young defensemen like 2024 second overall pick Artyom Levshunov and others like forward Frank Nazar and defensemen Kevin Korchinski and Sam Rinzel are expected to boost the team`s fortunes soon. The hope is that this off-season marks the last time the team is focused on the draft lottery.
