The NHL has many star players who can change a game at any moment. But a recent fan discussion was not about what players do on the ice. Instead, fans talked about which current NHL players could become great coaches after retirement. The reactions revolve around Leon Draisaitl and Sidney Crosby. 

The discussion started when X user JB (@JackieBee_16) asked fans to name a current NHL player who would make an excellent coach in the future. JB chose Edmonton Oilers star Leon Draisaitl as the first pick, and the question quickly led to a larger debate involving several well-known NHL veterans.

JB wrote, “Name a current NHL player that you think would make an excellent NHL coach when they retire from playing. I’ll go first: Leon Draisaitl.”

In 855 regular-season games, Leon Draisaitl has recorded 1,053 points, including 434 goals so far in his career. He has also been outstanding in the playoffs, scoring 151 points and 55 goals in 102 games.

Many fans would have believed his hockey intelligence, ability to read the game, and calm mindset could help him become a good coach.

Sidney Crosby was another popular choice. Since joining the Pittsburgh Penguins, he has played 1,420 games and recorded 1,761 points, including 654 goals.

He has also produced 206 playoff points in 186 games. Fans might look at his leadership, experience, and respect around the league, which could make him an excellent coach after retirement.

While both players are still important stars for their teams, many fans enjoyed imagining what their careers might look like after retirement, especially if they move into coaching.

Fans See Sidney Crosby and Leon Draisaitl Taking Different Paths

Many fans focused on Crosby’s leadership qualities. One of them mentioned, “Gotta go with Sid. I know being a great player doesn’t always equal being a great coach (see Wayne Gretzky), but I think Sid has that ability.”

The comment showed a common belief that being a great coach requires more than just talent as a player. Many fans think Crosby has the leadership and communication skills needed to succeed behind the bench.

Another user agreed with JB’s choice. 

“I cannot because you took my choice.” 

The comment shows that Draisaitl was already their top pick before someone else mentioned him.

Several fans looked beyond just one player and mentioned a few different names. One of them wrote:

“Sidney Crosby, John Tavares. Both would make amazing head coaches. They understand the game and what it takes to win. They also mentor young players on their teams already.”

Some fans continued to support Draisaitl. One fan said he could do very well in a management role after his playing career.

“Draisaitl will probably end up as GM.”

The same fan also picked Calvin Pickard as a future coach and said Zach Hyman could become either a coach or a general manager one day.

What do you think? Who will be the best coach out of Draisaitl and Crosby in the future? Comment your opinion below. 

Read more at the NHL Fan Central

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Souvik Roy