NHL Rumors: Speculation Surrounding the St. Louis Blues and Seattle Kraken
It’s time for another installment of NHL rumors as we gear up for the 2024 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. While some teams prepare for the postseason, others face tough decisions. Those who didn’t make the playoffs have significant work ahead in the offseason to reposition themselves for contention. Today’s NHL rumors focus on the St. Louis Blues and the Seattle Kraken.
**St. Louis Blues**
*Rumor:* Jeremy Rutherford of The Athletic discussed the Blues’ head coaching search.
*Analysis:* St. Louis narrowly missed out on the postseason after dismissing Craig Berube midway through the season. Interim coach Drew Bannister made commendable efforts to keep the team competitive until the final week. While Bannister is a strong contender, General Manager Doug Armstrong may explore other options. Candidates such as Denver University coach David Carle and former Blues coach Joel Quenneville have been mentioned. However, Quenneville’s potential reinstatement by the league could pose challenges due to his involvement in the Kyle Beach scandal.
Carle, a successful coach at the collegiate level, led the Pioneers to their 10th NCAA Division I Men’s Hockey Championship. The allure of coaching in the NHL remains, but Carle’s interest in transitioning to the professional level is uncertain.
Quenneville, despite his desire to return to coaching, faces considerable scrutiny and obstacles due to his past controversies. Receiving reinstatement from Commissioner Gary Bettman could be a significant hurdle for potential suitors.
Armstrong also has the option of seasoned veterans like Todd McLellan, Dean Evason, Gerard Gallant, and Jay Woodcroft if he opts for experience. These names have surfaced in previous NHL rumors regarding other teams like the Buffalo Sabres and Ottawa Senators. While St. Louis management may retain Bannister or offer him a permanent role, there’s a sentiment that he deserves serious consideration for the head coaching position sans the interim label.
