NHL Teams Seek New Coaches After Playoff Misses

Pittsburgh, PA — As the Stanley Cup Playoffs approach their conclusion, three NHL teams are on the hunt for new head coaches. The Pittsburgh Penguins, Boston Bruins, and Seattle Kraken are all looking to fill their coaching vacancies as they prepare for the next season.

The Penguins recently parted ways with long-time coach Mike Sullivan, who led the franchise since the 2015-16 season. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported that the Penguins are beginning their in-person interviews with candidates. Among the names being considered are Mitch Love, currently an assistant with the Washington Capitals, D.J. Smith, a former head coach of the Ottawa Senators, and Jay Woodcroft, who was let go from the Edmonton Oilers early in the 2023-24 season.

Love, 40, has had significant experience working with defensemen and contributed to the Capitals’ strong performance last season. Smith, who is now an assistant with the Los Angeles Kings, was fired by Ottawa earlier this year. Meanwhile, Woodcroft had a turbulent tenure with Edmonton, getting dismissed after a rough start to the season.

In Boston, the Bruins are searching for a new coach after they dismissed Jim Montgomery mid-season. Interim coach Joe Sacco stepped in following Montgomery’s exit. Friedman mentioned that there are serious contenders for the Bruins’ job, including Marco Sturm and Woodcroft. Sturm has had success coaching in the AHL and has previous experience coaching the German national team.

Friedman indicated that Sturm is expected to visit Boston soon, although it is unclear whether it will be for another interview or to finalize an offer. Alongside Sturm, Woodcroft remains a strong candidate, but internal options such as Jay Leach and Joe Sacco should not be overlooked.

In the Pacific Northwest, the Kraken are also in search of a new head coach after firing Dan Bylsma after just one year. Friedman highlighted Lane Lambert and David Quinn as leading candidates for the Kraken’s coaching position, although Sturm and Love might also be in contention.

As these teams look to rebound from disappointing seasons, the urgency to finalize their coaching searches is increasing. Decisions about new coaches in Pittsburgh, Boston, and Seattle could significantly influence each franchise’s trajectory heading into the next season.