Toronto Maple Leafs Coaching Candidates
The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly considering several candidates for their head coaching position. Among the names being discussed are Bruce Cassidy, though the Edmonton Oilers appear to be a more likely destination for him, and Manny Malhotra, whose current team, the Vancouver Canucks, might not grant permission for him to interview. Other potential candidates include Jack Capuano, David Carle, Mike Yeo, John Gruden (currently coaching the Marlies), and Joe Sacco.
Additional names being considered are Pascal Vincent, Peter Laviolette, Gerard Gallant, Steve Sullivan, and Dean Evason.
Different tiers of potential candidates are being discussed. Bruce Cassidy is seen as someone who might be out of reach, with Bruce Boudreau, Dean Evason, Peter Laviolette, and Patrick Roy falling into the “veteran retreads” category. Kris Knoblauch, Todd Nelson, and Jay Woodcroft are considered for “second chances,” while Misha Donskov, Jay Leach, and Manny Malhotra represent a “fresh perspective.” Internal candidates include John Gruden, Derek Lalonde, and Steve Sullivan. Jussi Ahokas and David Carle appear to be off the table.
According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, it’s unlikely Bruce Cassidy will end up in Toronto, and he may not even be their top choice. Friedman suggests the Los Angeles Kings are also showing significant interest in Cassidy.
Dallas Stars May Need Trades to Re-sign Jason Robertson
The Dallas Stars are facing a potential salary cap crunch as they look to re-sign pending restricted free agent forward Jason Robertson, who is expected to command a salary of at least $12 million. With only $11 million in projected cap space and the need to add two or three more forwards, the Stars will likely need to move players to create room. Several players could be potential trade candidates:
- Radek Faksa: With two years remaining on his contract at $2 million per year, Faksa is a solid penalty-killing depth center. He may require surgery after suffering a severe foot laceration at the Olympics.
- Sam Steel: Steel has one year left on his contract at $2.1 million. He proved to be a valuable penalty killer, contributing 12 goals and 21 assists in 73 games last season.
- Ilya Lyubushkin: In the final year of his deal at $3.25 million, Lyubushkin played in only 53 games last year. While a capable depth defenseman, re-signing Alexander Petrovic would be a more cost-effective option.
- Tyler Myers: Acquired for two draft picks, Myers has one year left at $1.5 million. He was a healthy scratch for some playoff games due to costly mistakes. The Stars might consider moving Lyubushkin over Myers, who also possesses a 12-team no-trade clause.
