The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly exploring major coaching changes after another disappointing NHL playoff finish, but their pursuit of veteran coach Bruce Cassidy has already hit resistance from the rival Vegas Golden Knights.
NHL insider Frank Seravalli revealed on X that Edmonton requested permission to interview Cassidy following Vegas’ decision to fire him in March.
“League sources say #Oilers have sought permission to interview Bruce Cassidy as they contemplate significant coaching staff changes,” Seravalli posted on X. “To this point, sources say @GoldenKnights have withheld permission from division rival. Gamesmanship? Perhaps. Mostly unprecedented for role.”
The situation is now likely going to be one of the biggest offseason storylines around the league. Cassidy remains under contract with Vegas despite being dismissed with eight games left in the regular season. His firing surprised many across the NHL after he guided the franchise to its first Stanley Cup title in 2023 and posted a strong 178-99-43 record during his tenure.
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Meanwhile, pressure continues to build in Edmonton after the Oilers crashed out in the first round against the Anaheim Ducks in six games. The early elimination came after back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances and left serious questions about the organization’s direction.
Coach Kris Knoblauch initially transformed Edmonton after replacing Jay Woodcroft in November 2023. He helped the Oilers become a Western Conference powerhouse and has posted an impressive 135-77-21 record. However, the team’s defensive breakdowns during the Ducks series created doubts about whether he remains the right fit moving forward.
Connor McDavid’s average team comments after 2026 playoff exit
After the 2026 playoff exit, Edmonton captain Connor McDavid described the team as an ‘average team.’ With McDavid’s two-year contract extension beginning in July, management faces enormous pressure to convince the superstar that the franchise remains committed to winning.
“We were an average team all year,” McDavid said after Game 6 elimination to the Ducks. “An average team with high expectations, you’re going to be disappointed.”
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Seravalli recently described the upcoming offseason as a “burn-the-boats summer” for Edmonton, warning the organization cannot afford another misstep if it hopes to keep McDavid long term.
