Top 5 Available NHL Coaches & Their Potential Landing Spots

As the NHL playoffs reach the midway point, the coaching carousel is already beginning to take shape around the league. Several teams facing disappointing postseason exits or underwhelming seasons are expected to explore changes behind the bench this summer.

At the same time, there is no shortage of intriguing coaching options available. From Stanley Cup-winning veterans to rising names looking for their first NHL opportunity, teams will have plenty of choices as they search for the right fit. Here’s a look at five available NHL coaches and the destinations that make the most sense for each of them.

Bruce Cassidy – Edmonton Oilers

Bruce Cassidy has quickly become the coach most heavily linked to the Edmonton Oilers following their disappointing first-round exit. After the loss, Oilers management stated that “everything will be evaluated,” while reports continue to grow that Kris Knoblauch could be let go later today.

The situation became even more interesting after Vegas reportedly delayed permission for Edmonton to speak with Cassidy, despite already moving on and hiring John Tortorella. Because Cassidy remains under contract, the Golden Knights still control interview permissions.

For Edmonton, the interest makes complete sense. The Oilers looked inconsistent all season and failed to take the next step after back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances. Cassidy would bring structure, accountability, and a Stanley Cup-winning resume to a team still trying to maximize the Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl era.

Jay Woodcroft – New Jersey Devils

Jay Woodcroft is currently serving as an assistant with the Anaheim Ducks, but has already shown he can succeed as a head coach from his time with the Oilers. The New Jersey Devils are at a crossroads. Keefe is firmly in the hot seat after inconsistent results, and the team’s young core — led by Jack Hughes — needs direction and stability.

Woodcroft’s strength lies in player development and communication, which makes him an ideal fit for a team like New Jersey. He understands how to maximize skill players while maintaining structure, something the Devils have struggled with. If the Devils decide to move on from Keefe, Woodcroft would be a natural replacement who aligns with the team’s long-term vision.

Gerard Gallant – Vegas Golden Knights

Gerard Gallant could quietly become an interesting name to watch again this offseason. After coaching in the KHL, Gallant stepped away from his role in mid-January due to health reasons, but there is growing belief he could return to the NHL behind the bench next season.

A reunion with the Vegas Golden Knights would not be surprising if they fall short in the playoffs and if John Tortorella ultimately decides not to re-sign. Gallant remains one of the most respected coaches in the league for his ability to quickly get teams to buy in and compete immediately.

His previous success in Vegas still carries weight after leading the franchise to a Stanley Cup Final in their inaugural season. If the Golden Knights are looking for stability and familiarity again, Gallant could make a lot of sense.

David Carle – Toronto Maple Leafs

After moving on from Craig Berube, the Toronto Maple Leafs could shift their focus toward finding a coach for the long term rather than another short-term veteran hire. Winning the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery and securing the first overall pick only strengthens the idea that Toronto may now be building toward a new era centered around younger players and long-term stability.

If teams are looking to move away from recycled coaching hires, David Carle is the best candidate available. The University of Denver head coach has already won two NCAA championships and is widely regarded as one of the best young coaching minds in hockey.

Carle would represent a major philosophical shift for Toronto. Instead of recycling another experienced NHL coach on a short leash, the Maple Leafs could bring in a younger coach capable of growing alongside their next core led by the future first overall pick. His ability to connect with younger players, demand accountability, and implement structured systems could make him the perfect coach to guide Toronto into its next chapter.

Manny Malhotra – Vancouver Canucks/Toronto Maple Leafs

Manny Malhotra has quickly emerged as one of the most intriguing young coaching candidates available after leading Vancouver’s AHL affiliate to a Calder Cup championship. His ability to connect with younger players while still demanding structure and accountability has made him a rising name around the league.

A return to the Vancouver organization could make a lot of sense if the Canucks decide they want a younger, more energetic voice behind the bench. Malhotra already has strong ties to the organization both as a former player and now as a successful coach within their system, which could make the transition seamless.

Toronto could also be a serious fit. After moving on from Berube, the Maple Leafs may look to modernize their approach with a fresher voice capable of growing with a younger core. Malhotra’s leadership style, communication skills, and recent success at the AHL level could make him a strong long-term option if Toronto decides to take a bigger swing on an up-and-coming coach.

NHL Coaching Carousel Will Define the Offseason

This offseason has the potential to completely reshape the NHL coaching landscape. Teams like the Oilers, Maple Leafs, and Canucks are all facing major decisions behind the bench that could define the direction of their franchises moving forward.

Edmonton appears to be aggressively pursuing Cassidy after another disappointing playoff exit, while Toronto may shift toward a younger, long-term option after parting ways with Berube and winning the 2026 Draft Lottery. Vancouver could also become a team to watch if they decide a younger voice like Malhotra is the right fit moving forward.

At the same time, experienced names like Gallant could re-enter the picture depending on how Vegas handles its coaching situation after the playoffs. Whether teams prioritize proven NHL experience or newer, modern coaching voices like Carle and Malhotra, this summer could bring some of the biggest coaching changes the league has seen in years. One thing is certain — patience around the league is running out, and the right hire could completely change a franchise’s future.