An unprecedented NHL Coaches Association statement is fighting to free Bruce Cassidy for the Maple Leafs
Photo credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
The NHL Coaches Association is keeping a close eye on the Bruce Cassidy situation after Vegas blocked access to him, meaning Toronto may have a shot after all.
Bruce Cassidy was denied by Vegas to interview with both Edmonton and Los Angeles, and the NHL Coaches Association is incensed. They view it as a detriment to their protected clients, and the Toronto Maple Leafs could benefit after all is said and done with Cassidy as their new bench boss.
News came out that the Vegas Golden Knights were none too pleased with other NHL teams' attempts to pry former coach Bruce Cassidy away from them despite being fired the last stretch of the season. They are still paying him, and they technically can control where he goes; it's essentially a non-compete.
NHL Coaches Association called Bruce Cassidy's multiple denials 'unprecedented'
But that doesn't sit well with the NHL Coaches Association, who put out a public statement on the matter given that Cassidy is one of the top coaches on the market, and Vegas' attempts to block him as a way to handicap other teams was pretty unfair:
The NHLCA has been closely monitoring the situation involving Bruce Cassidy. 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.
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.
This is the official representation of the NHL coaches calling them out, not just a fan or a few people getting upset. This would be akin to the NHLPA monitoring a situation if one of their players were under discrimination or being prevented from making signings.
Vegas blocking Bruce Cassidy is the exact wall John Chayka needs to break down
While it wouldn't be illegal for Vegas to prevent Cassidy from interviewing, it does show some pretty horrible gamesmanship. Vegas seems worried that some insider secrets and strategies are going to get leaked, and while that's possible - where's the trust in Cassidy?
You're purposefully preventing a top coach from having the chance to not only earn a living, but also preventing him from having a fulfilling career. That's not really kind to a guy who brought you so much success and a Stanley Cup. You're the team that got tired of his decision-making and now you're just holding him hostage.
It's why John Chayka needs to come in guns ablazing and save the day. If he's able to get the advantage in first dibs on Cassidy after the smoke clears from this situation, he could put forth an offer that nobody can match off the bat.
Make him the highest paid coach in the NHL, give him a lengthy term and ride the momentum of a coach who has a ton to prove to the entire league and also give the Maple Leafs the up-tempo style they need.
Imagine the poetry if the Maple Leafs somehow made it to the Cup Finals with Cassidy, only to face Mitch Marner and Vegas? It would be one of the most anticipated in modern times, and the viewership would be off the charts.
It won't be easy given that Chayka needs to ensure that the NHLCA doesn't give the Oilers and Kings first shot. But if he can squeak in an offer, he could be the mouse that runs away with the cheese.
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