As the 2024-25 NHL season progresses past the one-month mark, the standings remain largely competitive while teams begin to adjust and prepare for the lengthy journey towards the playoffs in the spring. However, several teams have drawn scrutiny due to slow starts, a situation that often puts the spotlight on head coaches and general managers alike. Coaches are typically expected to motivate players and develop effective line combinations to foster winning performances, leading to potential criticism when their teams falter. Not even established figures like Mike Sullivan, head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins and a two-time Stanley Cup champion, are immune from such evaluations.
The Buffalo Sabres have yet to appear in the playoffs since the 2010-11 season, marking the longest postseason drought in NHL history at 13 seasons. During this period, the franchise has seen four different general managers and seven coaching changes, including the recent return of Lindy Ruff, who was previously dismissed during the 2012-13 season. Kevyn Adams, who took over as general manager in June 2020, aimed to transform the Sabres into contenders, evidenced by a near playoff berth in the 2022-23 season with a point total of 91—the team's highest since their last playoff appearance. However, with a disappointing start to the current season at 4-7-1, and statistics reflecting struggle in both power play and penalty killing, Adams may soon face scrutiny about how to revitalize the roster. Reports indicate that he has been actively looking to strengthen the lineup, making this season critical for his long-term future with the organization.
In Nashville, head coach Andrew Brunette stepped into his role aiming to return the Predators to playoff contention after missing the postseason in 2023. However, after a first-round exit to the Vancouver Canucks, General Manager Barry Trotz sought to enhance the roster by signing Stanley Cup champions Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, as well as defenseman Brady Skjei. Despite these efforts positioning the Predators among offseason winners, their record of 4-6-1 places them near the bottom of the Western Conference standings, with struggles primarily arising from a lack of offensive chemistry early in the season. Though Brunette's position does not appear immediately threatened, the Predators' performance could significantly impact his future, especially as new acquisitions adapt to the team's structure.
The New York Islanders are similarly grappling with challenges, sitting at 4-6-2 early this season with offensive production averaging only 2.25 goals per game, the second-lowest mark in the league. This has been an ongoing dilemma for the team under GM Lou Lamoriello's leadership since 2018. Despite an emphasis on defensive play and successful seasons that included back-to-back trips to the Eastern Conference Final, the Islanders have consistently struggled to find impactful scorers, especially following the departure of John Tavares in 2018. Lamoriello's attempts to revitalize the offense—through acquisitions like Bo Horvat—have yet to yield the desired results, raising concerns among fans about the future direction of the franchise without a potent scoring threat.
Meanwhile, the Boston Bruins, who enjoyed two strong seasons under head coach Jim Montgomery, have unexpectedly found themselves near the bottom of the Eastern Conference with a 4-6-1 record. Despite their impressive performances last season, the team has struggled to find offensive rhythm and has surrendered an average of 3.23 goals per game as of early November. Montgomery expressed confusion regarding the club's slow start, particularly following significant losses, including an 8-2 defeat to the Carolina Hurricanes. Although recent victories may alleviate some immediate pressure, Montgomery's long-term prospects with the team hinge on his ability to restore the Bruins' previous success before his contract concludes.
Martin St. Louis, appointed head coach of the Montreal Canadiens in February 2022, has received acknowledgment for his nurturing of young talent during a challenging rebuilding phase. However, with the Canadiens currently taking a step back at 4-7-1 and showcasing subpar defensive metrics—including the second-most goals allowed per game—criticism of St. Louis's coaching strategy is rising. Despite a contract extension ensuring his position through 2025, management may need to assess his approach more critically if the team fails to show tangible improvement amid ongoing defensive issues.
Lastly, Mike Sullivan, as a veteran head coach of the Penguins since December 2015, finds himself facing similar pressures. Having led the team to consecutive Stanley Cups, the past few seasons have not been as fruitful, with the franchise missing the playoffs for two consecutive years. The Penguins, now amidst a roster evolution, are struggling defensively and offensively. Although team president Kyle Dubas may not face immediate pressure after just two seasons, the threat of further changes may loom over the organization if San Jose's lack of improvement continues. Sullivan's future remains uncertain, resting heavily on his capacity to extract optimal performance from the current roster.
