The conclusion of any NHL season often leads to a number of head coaching vacancies, and the 2024-25 season has seen an unprecedented number of openings. Eight teams entered the offseason in search of new leadership behind the bench, and the hiring process is progressing swiftly, with five teams already filling their positions. As the Boston Bruins, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Seattle Kraken continue their coaching searches, it is important to evaluate the recent hires that have been made. Which coaches will the remaining teams regret missing out on?

Grade: B. One of the more anticipated moves in recent weeks was the hiring of former Detroit Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill by the Chicago Blackhawks. After being let go by the Red Wings in April 2022 following a seven-season tenure focused on rebuilding, Blashill brings a wealth of experience in player development. His coaching career includes stints in the USHL, NCAA, and AHL before he took over in Detroit in the 2015-16 season. Most recently, Blashill spent time working under Jon Cooper in Tampa Bay, enhancing his skills for another opportunity in the NHL. The Blackhawks have cycled through four first-year head coaches since 2018, and with Blashill’s extensive experience in player development and rebuilding processes, he now assumes the role of guiding the team through their current phase. With the organization recognizing that their path to playoff contention will be a multi-year endeavor, the added pressure of immediate success is minimal. Blashill’s low-risk hire reflects a desire for stability and direction, which the Blackhawks have been seeking.

Grade: A+. In a bid to rejuvenate a once-promising franchise that experienced significant turmoil last season, the New York Rangers' decision to hire Mike Sullivan marks a pivotal moment. General Manager Chris Drury leveraged his connections to bring Sullivan on board, having worked together previously in both Boston University and USA Hockey. Sullivan's swift transition from the Pittsburgh Penguins to the Rangers saw him sign a lucrative five-year contract worth $6.5 million annually, making him the highest-paid coach in NHL history. Sullivan's tenure with the Penguins resulted in eight playoff appearances, two consecutive Stanley Cups, and a commendable record of 409-255-89. Following a downturn in performance and three straight playoff misses, the Penguins and Sullivan parted ways. Now, the Rangers hope that Sullivan's proven track record with established teams can help them reclaim their position among the NHL elites. His capacity to guide the Rangers back towards competitiveness will be closely monitored.

Grade: B. Rick Tocchet’s previous success and popularity as a player and coach have led to significant enthusiasm surrounding his appointment as head coach of the Philadelphia Flyers. Recognized for winning the Jack Adams Award in his last season with the Vancouver Canucks and beloved by players, Tocchet's coaching experience spans various levels and outcomes. A Flyers Hall of Fame member from his playing days, Tocchet’s deep connections to the franchise, including a personal history with GM Danny Briere, have created optimism. Despite this, the hiring comes with inherent risks. The best-case scenario sees Tocchet leading the Flyers out of a prolonged struggle and toward success. Yet, there are concerns that the expectations surrounding his arrival might pressure the team prematurely, particularly as they may still have a ways to go before contending. Nevertheless, Tocchet has been successful in similar situations, and many believe he has the potential to bring the Flyers back to a competitive stance.

Grade: B-. The Vancouver Canucks have faced significant criticism, particularly following a disappointing previous season. However, amidst the challenges, they have retained some essential components, such as the defensive system tailored for Quinn Hughes, developed under Tocchet’s guidance. Following Tocchet's departure, the Canucks opted to promote assistant coach Adam Foote to head coach. Such promotions can sometimes be viewed as a failure to seek fresh perspectives, yet Foote's familiarity with the team's operations could provide the stability necessary for progress. Recognizing that a sudden overhaul may not be in the best interest of the players, Foote's promotion aims to maintain continuity while addressing the team's defensive challenges. Yet, skepticism remains about the front office’s decisions, with concerns that the connection between Foote and Hughes may have influenced the hire. If the Canucks are not careful, they risk repeating past misjudgments, particularly if Hughes were to leave the organization.