As the NHL regular season winds down, teams missing out on the playoffs might be gearing up for some significant changes. This often starts with adjustments behind the bench or in the front office. Let's dive into which teams might be considering such moves.
Toronto Maple Leafs
It’s been a season to forget for the Toronto Maple Leafs, and changes seem inevitable. GM Brad Treliving and head coach Craig Berube could find themselves in the spotlight.
Treliving, with just a year left on his contract, faces uncertainty. The Maple Leafs need to decide whether to extend him or seek new leadership.
Since Treliving took over, the roster hasn't improved, especially when compared to Kyle Dubas’s success in Pittsburgh. Moves like acquiring Scott Laughton and Brandon Carlo haven’t panned out, leaning more on grit than skill.
Berube, while not ineffective, might be due for a change. The team hasn’t matched the five-on-five prowess they had under Sheldon Keefe, despite winning the division last season. Sometimes, a fresh start is needed, even if it’s only been two seasons.
New Jersey Devils
The New Jersey Devils have also fallen short of expectations. Injuries, particularly to Jack and Luke Hughes, have played a part, but the issues run deeper. GM Tom Fitzgerald’s roster construction hasn’t addressed scoring deficiencies, and restrictive contract clauses have limited flexibility.
Sheldon Keefe’s coaching style, initially conservative and defensive, has evolved post-Olympic break to a more dynamic, rush-based approach. This shift has sparked offensive improvement, but whether it’s enough for Keefe to keep his job hinges on the season’s final stretch. Ownership faces tough decisions ahead.
Edmonton Oilers
While not as disappointing as others, the Edmonton Oilers have underperformed. Luckily, the Pacific Division’s struggles mean they’re still playoff contenders, even with Leon Draisaitl sidelined. However, an early playoff exit could put head coach Kris Knoblauch and GM Stan Bowman under scrutiny.
Knoblauch’s track record includes leading the Oilers to two Stanley Cup Finals, but with Connor McDavid’s free agency looming in 2028, urgency is key. Bowman’s tenure has seen persistent goaltending issues, despite acquiring Tristan Jarry. The McDavid era demands success, and ownership may have to make tough calls to ensure it.
Nashville Predators
Barry Trotz’s departure as GM signals changes for the Nashville Predators. Head coach Andrew Brunette has kept the team competitive despite past GM missteps.
However, new GMs often prefer their own hires. Should Brunette be available, his fast-paced style would appeal to teams like the Devils or Oilers.
Wild Cards
The Detroit Red Wings cling to a playoff spot, but missing out could spark discussions about GM Steven Yzerman’s future. Since 2019, the playoffs have eluded them under his leadership. A missed postseason might prompt a summer shake-up.
In Vancouver, head coach Adam Foote’s position could be in jeopardy. With Patrik Allvin and Jim Rutherford secure, they might seek a developmental coach to guide a rebuilding phase. An unexpected playoff upset could also lead to surprise firings, adding intrigue to the offseason coaching and GM carousel.
As the regular season concludes, the anticipation of change looms large, promising an eventful offseason for several NHL teams.