The Vegas Golden Knights are facing criticism after multiple organizations claimed that the team denied permission to interview former head coach Bruce Cassidy.

Because Cassidy remains under contract despite being fired late in the regular season, other teams reportedly cannot speak with him without Vegas giving permission. The situation led the NHL Coaches’ Association to publicly respond and give better clarity to the public.

"The NHLCA has been closely monitoring the situation involving Bruce Cassidy...it is our position that coaches who remain under contract, but are no longer working for their club, should not be prevented from pursuing other employment opportunities."

The NHL Coaches’ Association released a statement saying they have been observing the situation surrounding Cassidy and the Golden Knights, after reports linked teams like the Edmonton Oilers and the Los Angeles Kings’ interest in the veteran coach.

Cassidy is still one of the league’s most respected coaches despite being fired. He helped the Vegas Golden Knights to their first Stanley Cup championship in 2023.

Before Vegas, he also coached the Boston Bruins to multiple deep runs into many playoff series, including a trip to the Stanley Cup Final in 2019. 

Given his championship resume, it is unsurprising that Cassidy remains a top candidate for vacant positions.

Vegas was quick to replace its coach due to a busy schedule.

Bruce Cassidy’s Replacement in Vegas

Vegas made the surprising decision to fire Cassidy with only eight games left in the regular season. 

There was speculation that there was growing frustration within the team with their inconsistent performances towards the end of the season, with a record of 3–5–2 in Cassidy's last 10 games.

These concerns were then followed by Cassidy getting fired.

He was eventually replaced by John Tortorella, who was also one of the most experienced coaches in the league’s history. Tortorella previously coached teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning, New York Rangers, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Philadelphia Flyers, winning a Stanley Cup with Tampa Bay in 2004. 

Even though Tortorella brought in hopes for Vegas, the timing of Cassidy’s firing and the blocked interviews is unusual.

For now, the NHL Coaches’ Association’s public statement has only added more attention to a situation many fans continue watching closely. 

Do you think the decision to fire Bruce Cassidy mid-season was a smart move by the Vegas Golden Knights? Let us know in the comments.

Read more at NHL Fan Central!

Written by

Aadhya Nalla

Edited by

Surjo Ray