James Guillory-Imagn images
On Tuesday, the Boston Bruins replaced Jim Montgomery as coach, promoting associate coach Joe Sacco on an interim basis.
Pierre LeBrun of TSN reported that the Bruins will give Sacco a legitimate opportunity to become their full-time coach. He indicated that they do not plan to look for a new bank boss and that they have not contacted any available candidates.
Meanwhile, some observers are proposing new coaching destinations for Montgomery.
Adam Proteau of The Hockey News suggested the Detroit Red Wings, Nashville Predators and Pittsburgh Penguins. Meanwhile, The Athletic’s Fluto Shinzawa included the St. Louis Blues and Montreal Canadiens on his list.
Related: Three NHL teams that should consider hiring Jim Montgomery
These five teams are off to a disappointing start, putting varying degrees of pressure on their current bench bosses.
On November 16, Detroit Hockey Now’s Bob Duff observed the Red Wings’ lifeless 4-1 loss to the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday. He wondered if coach Derek Lalonde needed a win against the San Jose Sharks on Monday to keep his job. Apparently not, as the Wings picked up a point in a 5-4 overtime loss to the Sharks.
Lalonde’s future could depend on the Wings’ performance in the next six games, five of which are at home against the New York Islanders starting Thursday. A string of losses there could set up Lalonde’s departure.
Meanwhile, Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette wondered how long it will be before Penguins drop the ax on coach Mike Sullivan. Mackey does not view Sullivan as a bad coach, but believes the players are unwilling or unable to do his bidding, suggesting they have taken out their old bench boss.
In Nashville, the focus is on GM Barry Trotz’s efforts to improve the roster rather than Andrew Brunette’s coaching. Rob Couch of Hockey News cited reports claiming Trotz is rigorously searching for centers on the trade market.
As for the Blues, coach Drew Bannister said his slumping club must find ways to win games. His injury-free lineup could give him a longer leash than Lalonde, Sullivan or Brunette. The Blues have sidelined three regular defenders: Torey Krug, Nick Leddy and Philip Broberg. Meanwhile, frontline center Robert Thomas only recently returned from a month out with a broken ankle.
Ryan Gagne of Hockey News believes Canadiens coach Martin St-Louis remains safe from the hot seat. Habs management appears willing to remain patient as St-Louis continues to groom their young players.
Related: Who else could be the next Boston Bruins head coach?
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