As the 2025-26 NHL season approaches, several coaching storylines have the potential to significantly impact team performance and shape the league's landscape. From coaches on the hot seat to new faces behind the bench and the ever-evolving strategies they employ, here are three key coaching narratives to monitor.

1. The Hot Seat Brigade:

The pressure is mounting for several NHL head coaches as they enter the 2025-26 season. A disappointing season, failure to make the playoffs, or a perceived inability to maximize team potential could lead to a change behind the bench.

• Andrew Brunette (Nashville Predators): Despite the Predators' acquisitions of high-profile players like Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, their performance has been underwhelming. Brunette's public criticism of his players last season raised eyebrows, and another disappointing year could spell the end of his tenure in Nashville.
• Patrick Roy (New York Islanders): Hired mid-season in 2023-24, Roy's tenure with the Islanders has been middling. While he led them to a playoff spot, their first-round exit and subsequent regular season performance have left much to be desired. With GM Lou Lamoriello's future also potentially uncertain, Roy's seat could get hotter.
• Lindy Ruff (Buffalo Sabres): The Sabres brought back a coaching legend in Ruff, hoping he could bring his past success to a young roster. However, it remains to be seen how much his legendary status resonates with players who were young children during his previous tenure. The Sabres' continued playoff drought could put Ruff's return in jeopardy.
• Mike Sullivan (Pittsburgh Penguins): Despite having a contract extension through the 2026-27 season, Sullivan's position isn't completely secure. The Penguins have underachieved in recent years, missing the playoffs, and GM Kyle Dubas will be evaluating Sullivan's performance.
• Rick Tocchet (Vancouver Canucks): After a disappointing season with drama involving key players, Tocchet's job security might be at risk if the Canucks fail to make the postseason.

2. New Faces, New Systems:

The 2025 NHL coaching carousel saw several teams make changes behind the bench, bringing in new voices and potentially new approaches.

• Marco Sturm (Boston Bruins): Sturm, born in Germany, transitioned from a successful playing career to coaching. He will be tasked with developing young players and returning the Bruins to postseason contention.
• Dan Muse (Pittsburgh Penguins): Muse, formerly an assistant coach with the New York Rangers, takes over as head coach of the Penguins. He will be joined by assistant coach Nick Bonino, who recently retired as a player.
• Lane Lambert (Seattle Kraken): Lambert, who previously coached the New York Islanders, was hired to replace Dan Bylsma in Seattle.
• Adam Foote (Vancouver Canucks): After Rick Tocchet's departure, the Canucks promoted assistant coach Adam Foote to the head coaching position. Foote's coaching philosophy emphasizes a player-led culture of accountability.
• Glen Gulutzan (Dallas Stars): Gulutzan returns to Dallas as head coach after serving as an assistant coach for the Edmonton Oilers.

3. Evolving Strategies and Coaching Philosophies:

Beyond individual coaches, the 2025-26 season could see shifts in coaching strategies and philosophies across the league.

• Adaptation to the Modern Game: With the game constantly evolving, coaches need to be innovative and adapt to the modern game. This includes incorporating analytics, adjusting systems to maximize player skill sets, and building strong relationships with players.
• Emphasis on Player Development: Several teams are prioritizing player development, particularly those in rebuilding phases. Coaches who can effectively mentor young talent and guide their growth will be highly valued.
• Creating a Player-Led Culture: Some coaches are emphasizing a player-led culture of accountability, empowering players to take ownership of their performance and drive the team's success. This approach requires building trust and fostering open communication within the team.
• Adjusting Tactics for Unique Situations: Coaches need to adjust their strategies for specific events like outdoor games, where factors like weather and ice conditions can significantly impact the game.

These coaching storylines are just a few of the many intriguing aspects of the upcoming NHL season. As teams battle for playoff spots and individual coaches strive for success, these narratives will undoubtedly shape the course of the 2025-26 season and beyond.