The NHL Coaches' Association has Bruce Cassidy's back.
The former Vegas Golden Knights head coach was fired with eight games left in the 2025-26 season, but because there's still term remaining on his contract, teams need the Golden Knights' permission to speak with Cassidy about other opportunities. Vegas has reportedly denied those requests from the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings - two Pacific Division rivals.
"The NHLCA has been closely monitoring the situation involving Bruce Cassidy," the association said in a statement Tuesday. "While we respect the league's rules and processes, 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.
"It would be unprecedented at the head coaching level should multiple teams be denied permission to speak with coach Cassidy. The situation is still unfolding, but our priority is to protect the interests of our members in this type of circumstance."
The Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks have coaching vacancies as well, although it's not clear if either club has attempted to interview Cassidy.
Cassidy won the 2023 Stanley Cup with the Golden Knights. He posted a 178-99-43 record in four seasons with the club.
