The conclusion of the NHL season often leads to a variety of head coaching vacancies, and the 2024-25 offseason has produced more open positions than seen in recent years. Eight teams are actively searching for new head coaches, with five franchises already making their selections. As the Boston Bruins, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Seattle Kraken finalize their coaching searches, it is pertinent to assess the recent hires that have emerged from this coaching carousel. Which remaining teams might rue the missed opportunities for these early head coach hires?

Grade: B - In a move that was anticipated, the Chicago Blackhawks appointed former Detroit Red Wings head coach Jeff Blashill. Blashill, dismissed by the Red Wings in April 2022 after a seven-season stint that focused on a team rebuild, brings a solid foundation in player development. His coaching experience spans various leagues, including stints in the USHL, NCAA, and AHL before taking over from Mike Babcock in Detroit prior to the 2015-16 season. Most recently, Blashill spent three years under the guidance of renowned coach Jon Cooper in Tampa Bay, further enhancing his resume as he returns to an NHL coaching role. The Blackhawks, having cycled through four first-year NHL head coaches since 2018, are now banking on Blashill’s extensive experience with prospect development and NHL reconstructive efforts to lead them through their rebuilding phase. With minimal pressure for immediate success, given the team's long-term playoff prospects, this hire reflects a strategic shift aimed at stability rather than desperation. Blashill's low-risk experience may pay dividends as he attempts to make things click this time around.

Grade: A+ - For a franchise known to be competitive yet experiencing significant turmoil both on and off the ice last season, the New York Rangers' decision to hire Mike Sullivan stands out as a commendable choice. General Manager Chris Drury leveraged personal connections to bring Sullivan onboard, as both share a history with Boston University and USA Hockey, where Sullivan recently coached Team USA. Sullivan left the Penguins on one day and was signed by the Rangers by that Friday, inking a five-year contract with an annual average value of $6.5 million, making him the highest-paid coach in NHL history. Sullivan, who boasts a decade-long tenure with the Penguins—including eight playoff seasons, back-to-back Stanley Cups, and an impressive 409-255-89 career record—was released at a time when the Penguins are in a re-tooling phase. Sullivan's deep-rooted success with established cores aiming for championship contention makes him a fitting hire as he seeks to restore the Rangers to form.

Grade: B - Rick Tocchet’s personality and potential coaching capabilities resonate positively with many, including viewers of TNT. Winning the Jack Adams Award during his successful season with the Vancouver Canucks solidified his reputation as a respected leader. As a Hall of Fame player for the Philadelphia Flyers, Tocchet's contributions on and off the ice are well acknowledged. General Manager Danny Briere, who played alongside Tocchet, highlights their mutual respect. While this hire may appear to hold immense potential, it carries inherent risks. The Flyers have faced challenges over recent seasons, and expectations for Tocchet as a franchise legend could lead to undue pressure. By contrast, any successful turnaround, similar to Rod Brind'Amour's impact with the Carolina Hurricanes, would affirm the rationale behind Tocchet's hiring. Nevertheless, it remains to be seen how well Tocchet can navigate the rebuilding process for the Flyers.

Grade: B- - Despite criticisms directed towards the Vancouver Canucks following last season's struggles, the team has demonstrated prior success and possesses core components worth maintaining. The organization faced significant adversity, including injuries to key players such as goaltender Thatcher Demko. The recent promotion of assistant coach foot from Rick Tocchet's coaching staff reflects a desire for continuity, as he understands the defensive structure tailored for Quinn Hughes. While internal promotions can sometimes be perceived as a lack of ambition, the hire aims to provide stability needed for the players. Foote's familiarity with the team dynamics may lead to positive developments. However, Vancouver’s front office faces skepticism regarding their decision-making, particularly concerning Hughes' relationship with Foote. Should Hughes depart, the organization could find itself in another precarious situation, highlighting the uncertainties surrounding the team’s future.