Nothing is going well in Arizona, where the Coyotes have lost in their last 12 games (0-10-2). Nevertheless, André Tourigny seems to be sitting well in the saddle. At the start of the season, Bill Armstrong signed a three-year contract extension.
A bit like Martin St-Louis, the likeable coach took over a team that was in full development. We want to give him time to move forward. However, not all coaches will benefit from the same leeway. With seven weeks to go before the end of the calendar, some are caught in a tightrope.
Don Granato – Buffalo
“Archive photo, Martin Chevalier”
After 12 seasons without playing, we dreamed of the playoffs in Buffalo. With 24 games remaining in the campaign, the Sabers are struggling to maintain their .500 record. His contract extension, signed in October 2022, does not begin until next year. But at $1.9 million for each of the next two years, a deep-pocketed owner won't hesitate to show him the way out.
Sheldon Keefe-Toronto
“Archive photo, AFP”
The Leafs saved their coach's job by finally managing to win a playoff round. Keefe signed a new two-year contract last summer, but he still hasn't left the inn. With all the strengths he has from his training, he needs to build on them a little further to prove that he is still the man for the job.
Pascal Vincent – Columbus
“Archive photo, Martin Chevalier”
After the sensitive cell phone episode, he was asked to succeed Mike Babcock. A fully deserved opportunity for the Quebecer, who has worked his way through the NHL and American League since 2011. What works against him is that Jarmo Kekalainen, his main ally in Columbus, was relieved of his duties as general manager on February 15th. Will he be the next CEO's right-hand man? At least he is under contract until next season.
Lindy Ruff – New Jersey
“Archive photo, AFP”
When a coach criticizes journalists for putting undue pressure on his players, it may be because he is running out of solutions. After finishing third in the Eastern Conference, the Devils are in danger of missing the playoffs. As for Ruff's defense, we must recognize that the situation in front of the Devils' net is difficult. The Devils also suffered several injuries to key players. The contract extension he signed at the start of the season will benefit him.
Mike Sullivan-Pittsburgh
“Archive photo, Martin Chevalier”
The Penguins are in danger of missing the playoffs for the second year in a row. Dissatisfaction is gradually becoming noticeable in the city of steel. The problem is that Sullivan signed a three-year contract extension in August 2022. An agreement that will come into force from next autumn. The $5.5 million he receives annually could provide him with some relief.
Jacques Martin – Ottawa
“Archive photo, AFP”
The venerable coach's situation is not the same as that of his colleagues named on this list. From the moment the 71-year-old replaced DJ Smith, it was clear that he would only provide a transition before hiring an actual successor. Some observers wonder whether he is waiting for Daniel Alfredsson to be ready to take over as the team's leader.
So far this season, six head coaches have lost their jobs:
- Jay Woodcroft-Edmonton
- Dean Evason-Minnesota
- Craig Berube – St. Louis
- DJ Smith – Ottawa
- Lane Lambert – NY Islanders
- Todd McLellan – Los Angeles