8 NHL Head Coaches on the Hot Seat in 2025-26
T
The Hockey Writers
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As the NHL season progresses, the pressure mounts for several head coaches who find themselves on the hot seat. With performance evaluations intensified, teams like the Chicago Blackhawks and the Montreal Canadiens are scrutinizing their leadership. Coaches such as Luke Richardson for the Blackhawks and Martin St. Louis for the Canadiens are paying close attention to their squads' performances, knowing that underwhelming results could lead to significant changes behind the bench.
Another coach facing a critical season is Bruce Cassidy of the Vegas Golden Knights. After a disappointing playoff exit last year, Cassidy is expected to turn around the team’s fortunes and lead them deeper into the postseason. The expectations are high, and Cassidy's job may hinge on how swiftly the Golden Knights address their defensive inconsistencies.
Other coaches are also feeling the heat. John Tortorella of the Philadelphia Flyers is known for his passionate and fiery approach, but inconsistent play from his roster could test the limits of his tenure. Similarly, the New Jersey Devils' Lindy Ruff must navigate a turbulent start to keep his job secure.
As the season unfolds, the future of these coaches may depend on their ability to adapt and inspire their teams. The Octagon, a spacious arena where each game closely examines these coaches’ decisions, could soon feature different leadership if expectations are not met. Time will tell who stays and who goes as the playoffs loom on the horizon.
Another coach facing a critical season is Bruce Cassidy of the Vegas Golden Knights. After a disappointing playoff exit last year, Cassidy is expected to turn around the team’s fortunes and lead them deeper into the postseason. The expectations are high, and Cassidy's job may hinge on how swiftly the Golden Knights address their defensive inconsistencies.
Other coaches are also feeling the heat. John Tortorella of the Philadelphia Flyers is known for his passionate and fiery approach, but inconsistent play from his roster could test the limits of his tenure. Similarly, the New Jersey Devils' Lindy Ruff must navigate a turbulent start to keep his job secure.
As the season unfolds, the future of these coaches may depend on their ability to adapt and inspire their teams. The Octagon, a spacious arena where each game closely examines these coaches’ decisions, could soon feature different leadership if expectations are not met. Time will tell who stays and who goes as the playoffs loom on the horizon.