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The 2025-26 NHL season demonstrated that coaching changes can occur unexpectedly, as the Vegas Golden Knights dismissed Bruce Cassidy with eight games remaining and John Tortorella guided the team to the Stanley Cup Final. However, Tortorella was not retained after the run, and the Golden Knights promoted American Hockey League coach Ryan Craig. Similarly, the New York Islanders let go of Patrick Roy with four games left and brought in Peter DeBoer, who will lead the team this season.
Former coaches such as Tortorella, Cassidy (assuming the Golden Knights grant permission), Kris Knoblauch, and others are among those who could step in if a change is needed. So which coaches might be on the hot seat this season? USA TODAY examines four possibilities.
Todd McLellan, Detroit Red Wings
The Red Wings are still searching for a full-time general manager, and that person will determine McLellan's future. He has only been with the team for one-plus seasons of their 10-year playoff drought, but the Red Wings did fade down the stretch last season.
Sheldon Keefe, New Jersey Devils
New general manager Sunny Mehta kept Keefe on and gave him more scoring depth. As always, the Devils' success depends on Jack Hughes' health. Plus, is the goaltending strong enough? A slow start could spell trouble for Keefe.
Scott Arniel, Winnipeg Jets
Arniel has a built-in excuse for a slow start because award-winning goalie Connor Hellebuyck didn't report to the team amid a trade request. But the Jets, even with Hellebuyck, went from the 2024-25 Presidents' Trophy to out of the 2026 playoffs.
Andrew Brunette, Nashville Predators
Like Keefe, he has a new general manager (Chris MacFarland) who upgraded the team. Brunette showed an 18-point improvement in his second season, but he's in the final year of his contract.
Originally reported by usatoday.