- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Todd McLellan may pay the price in San Jose as it’s looking like they will miss the playoffs for the first time since 2002-03. The Maple Leafs would be among the many teams interested if he is let go.Mike Babcock would be the biggest name out there if he doesn’t re-sign with the Red Wings. He’d likely have to take less from the Wings compared to what the Maple Leafs, Flyers, Sabres or others may offer.
If the Bruins miss the playoffs, Claude Julien could be on the hotseat.
Speculation out of Philadelphia that Craig Berube future with the team could be in jeopardy.
The Maple Leafs will be looking for a new coach, and it’s doubtful that it won’t be a marquee name.
Dave Tippett has three years left on his contract with Arizona, but despite loving the area, he may not be interested in a long rebuild.
Rumors that the Sabres will fire Ted Nolan after the season. GM Tim Murray may like Luke Richardson as their next coach, but he may not want to leave his AHL job. Would Sabres owner Terry Pegula spend big money to bring in Mike Babcock if he’s available.
Will the Oilers keep Todd Nelson?
The Devils will also be looking for a head coach.
If the Ducks or Blues go out early in the playoffs, Bruce Boudreau and/or Ken Hitchcock could be let go.
Former coaches that could get some interest include Peter DeBoer, Dan Bylsma, Randy Carlyle, Paul MacLean, Ron Wilson and John Tortorella.
- Tim Panaccio: Craig Berube wasn’t GM Ron Hextall’s choice as the Flyers head coach, he was already in place.
“I don’t approach it all and I can’t control that,” Berube said, when asked whether he’s thought about the prospect of being fired next month. “I do what I do. I like what I do.”
- Luke Fox of Sportsnet: 11 teams that could be looking for a new coach this offseason and presented in order of the most likely to be making a change: Maple Leafs, Flyers, Devils, Sharks, Sabres, Bruins, Red Wings, Ducks, Oilers, Blues and Coyotes.
- Inside Pittsburgh Sports: It wouldn’t be a surprise if at least one member of the Penguins management staff left the organization for another opportunity this offseason. Ray Shero may be an option in San Jose if they make some changes. There appears to be some friction between Penguins GM Jim Rutherford and some of the people that remained from when Ray Shero was there. Bill Guerin and Jason Karmanos appear to be good with Rutherford.
- Drag Like Pull: According to a “Russian Machine Never Breaks” post, the Maple Leafs employ an assistant coach on a KHL team that acts as a scout for them.