3 NHL Coaching Storylines That Could Define the 2025-26 Season
T
The Hockey Writers
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As the NHL moves into the 2025-26 season, coaching dynamics will play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of the league. With established coaches like John Tortorella of the Philadelphia Flyers and new faces like Luke Richardson of the Chicago Blackhawks, the strategies they employ will be closely scrutinized. Tortorella's fiery demeanor and tactical approach have already made headlines as he aims to revitalize a struggling Flyers roster, while Richardson’s fresh philosophy focuses on development and team cohesion as he seeks to elevate the Blackhawks.
Another significant storyline involves the pressure cooker environment surrounding coaches like Bruce Cassidy of the Vegas Golden Knights and Peter DeBoer of the Dallas Stars. Both have substantial expectations placed upon them due to their teams' competitive aspirations, making it imperative for them to deliver results. Cassidy, who led the Golden Knights to the postseason, must navigate the complexities of managing star players while keeping morale high. In contrast, DeBoer’s challenge lies in fostering chemistry among a roster laden with talent.
Furthermore, the league will keep a keen eye on coaches who may find themselves on the hot seat. The likes of Sergei Bobrovsky with the Florida Panthers and Ryan McDonough with the Tampa Bay Lightning are under immense scrutiny to turn their teams into playoff contenders. As playoffs become a litmus test for coaching success, the direction these teams take in the coming months could define their futures and those of their respective coaches.
Another significant storyline involves the pressure cooker environment surrounding coaches like Bruce Cassidy of the Vegas Golden Knights and Peter DeBoer of the Dallas Stars. Both have substantial expectations placed upon them due to their teams' competitive aspirations, making it imperative for them to deliver results. Cassidy, who led the Golden Knights to the postseason, must navigate the complexities of managing star players while keeping morale high. In contrast, DeBoer’s challenge lies in fostering chemistry among a roster laden with talent.
Furthermore, the league will keep a keen eye on coaches who may find themselves on the hot seat. The likes of Sergei Bobrovsky with the Florida Panthers and Ryan McDonough with the Tampa Bay Lightning are under immense scrutiny to turn their teams into playoff contenders. As playoffs become a litmus test for coaching success, the direction these teams take in the coming months could define their futures and those of their respective coaches.