The conclusion of the NHL season typically sees a number of head coaching vacancies, and the 2024-25 season has presented one of the most notable instances of this phenomenon in recent years. Eight teams entered the offseason actively searching for new leadership behind the bench, with hires being made at a relatively swift pace. Five teams have already secured new coaches, while the Boston Bruins, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Seattle Kraken continue their coaching searches. As the landscape of the league shifts, it is a fitting time to evaluate the coaching hires that have recently taken place and consider which candidates the remaining teams might regret missing out on.

One of the most anticipated moves was the Chicago Blackhawks' hiring of Jeff Blashill, former coach of the Detroit Red Wings. Blashill's hiring comes as no surprise, given his extensive background in player development, having coached previously in the USHL, NCAA, and AHL before stepping into the role with the Red Wings during the 2015-16 season. After several seasons with the Red Wings, Blashill spent time under the guidance of respected coach Jon Cooper with the Tampa Bay Lightning, refining his approach as he returns to the NHL coaching landscape. The Blackhawks have undergone a significant transition in recent years with a rotation of first-year coaches, and in selecting Blashill, they seem to prioritize experience in managing a rebuild. With a focus on long-term success rather than immediate results, this hire represents a low-risk investment for the Blackhawks as they work to re-establish themselves as contenders.

In contrast, the New York Rangers made a high-profile move in hiring Mike Sullivan, who previously coached the Pittsburgh Penguins for an impressive decade. Sullivan's record includes eight playoff appearances and back-to-back Stanley Cup victories, making him a coveted asset. He joins the Rangers on a five-year deal, earning the distinction of being the highest-paid coach in NHL history. As the Rangers navigate their own transition, Sullivan's proven success with established franchises positions him well to guide the team back to contention. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers announced Rick Tocchet's return to the franchise as head coach. A former player with a legacy in Philadelphia, Tocchet faced the challenge of revitalizing a team that has struggled in recent years. While there is optimism surrounding Tocchet's hiring, there are also inherent risks, particularly as expectations for immediate performance may clash with the team's current rebuilding phase. Finally, the Vancouver Canucks have elevated Kevin Foote from assistant coach to head coach, signaling a commitment to stability amidst organizational turbulence. Foote's familiarity with the team's defensive systems, cultivated under Tocchet, suggests a conscious effort to maintain continuity as the Canucks seek a resurgence.