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NHL coaches ranked amid offseason changes

July 20, 2026

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The NHL's coaching carousel has seen significant changes this offseason, reflecting the strategic shifts teams are making in pursuit of success. According to The Hockey News, several coaches rank low in overall effectiveness, with Jeff Blashill of the Chicago Blackhawks at the bottom of the list, having led his team to one of the worst records in the NHL last season.

Lane Lambert of the Seattle Kraken follows him, failing to reach the playoffs after being unable to develop key players like Shane Wright. Ryan Craig, the new head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights, faces immediate pressure to replicate the team's previous success after their Stanley Cup win, while Andrew Brunette of the Nashville Predators must navigate a revamped roster under new management and avoid falling into the 'Mushy Middle' of the standings.

Mike Babcock, now with the Edmonton Oilers, is under scrutiny after a long absence from playoff success, tasked with bringing the team back to Cup contention. Meanwhile, Ryan Huska of the Calgary Flames is in a rebuilding phase, where his focus will be on developing young talent despite the team's struggles last season.

These coaching changes illustrate the importance of leadership and strategic direction in the NHL, as teams seek to find the right fit to enhance their performance this coming season.

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