NHL Rumors: Oilers Chasing Cassidy, Tippett Statement, Coyle Signs

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Edmonton Oilers have reportedly sought permission to speak with Bruce Cassidy about coaching the team, but the Vegas Golden Knights aren’t making things easy. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers released a statement on Owen Tippett, explaining his absence and his future in the NHL. Finally, Charlie Coyle has signed an extension with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Why did he pass up an opportunity to test a relatively weak free agency market?

Oilers Denied Permission to Speak with Cassidy

Initially reported by Frank Seravalli and later picked up by several sources, reports surfaced on Tuesday that the Edmonton Oilers reached out to the Vegas Golden Knights to speak with former head coach Bruce Cassidy. It was noted that the Golden Knights denied the request.

Further details surfaced that “Sources said Vegas had not outright denied permission for Edmonton to interview Cassidy, but had more so kept the Oilers waiting as they continue playing their second-round series against Anaheim. Cassidy is also a target of the Los Angeles Kings’ vacancy.”

This is intriguing on several fronts. First, that Vegas would be so ruthless as to prevent a coach they fired from speaking with a team about a job opportunity feels par for the course for that team. Second, that the Oilers are actively seeking interviews while current head coach Kris Knoblauch is under contract and his new extension is set to kick in on July 1 speaks volumes to how they feel about this coaching situation.

There is talk that the NHL might have to step in and speak with the Golden Knights if they continue to stand in the way of him interviewing with either Los Angeles or Edmonton. Seravalli writes that the decision “might produce a phone call from commissioner Gary Bettman to smooth over, as permission to hire a fired coach is customarily granted and not withheld for any reason, even competitive.”

Coyle Signs with the Blue Jackets

Pending-UFA Charlie Coyle has signed a six-year, $36 million contract ($6 million AAV) with the Columbus Blue Jackets. He’s bypassing his chance to test free agency, which, in a relatively weaker market, could have meant a bigger payday.

“Charlie made a tremendous impact on and off the ice for us last season and keeping him in Columbus was a priority,” said DM Don Waddell.

Aaron Portzline of The Athletic writes, “Coyle was in the driver’s seat with contract talks. Would have had a big market waiting for him on July 1 if he reached UFA.” So why not wait? Portzline adds, “My understanding: Coyle’s gear never left Nationwide Arena after the season.” It seemed clear he likes the fit in Columbus and his priority was to stick around.

Flyers Offer Owen Tippett Injury Update

Concern on Tuesday about Owen Tippett’s future in the NHL was offered a positive update. The Philadelphia Flyers have issued the following statement on behalf of forward Owen Tippett:

“I was unable to return for the Second Round series vs. Carolina due to an internal bleeding issue that I sustained during the First Round series vs. Pittsburgh. Following a series of medical evaluations, treatments, and rehabilitation under the care of Flyers medical team, I am making progress and feeling better each day. Despite being cleared to travel and skate with the team at certain practices, things did not progress at a pace that I hoped for or would allow me to safely continue playing.”

He noted that he is proud of what his Flyers accomplished this season, despite being eliminated by the Carolina Hurricanes. He then said that he feels like he’ll be able to return to the NHL. “I am confident for a full recovery and look forward to returning for training camp in September and an exciting year ahead for this organization.”