The fallout from the Edmonton Oilers’ latest playoff disappointment is already creating major drama across the NHL, and this time, it goes far beyond roster changes.
After Edmonton’s early exit against the Anaheim Ducks, speculation quickly shifted toward the future behind the bench. But what nobody expected was the growing controversy involving former Vegas Golden Knights head coach Bruce Cassidy.
Now, an insider is shedding light on why Vegas has reportedly blocked the Oilers from speaking with Cassidy, sparking debate around the league and raising fresh questions about how much power teams should have over coaches they have fired.
Edmonton Oilers Shut Out in Pursuit of Bruce Cassidy
Rumors surrounding Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch intensified shortly after Edmonton’s playoff collapse, with speculation growing that management could look for a more experienced voice behind the bench.
According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, Edmonton formally requested permission from Vegas to interview Cassidy. However, the Golden Knights have not approved the request just yet.
Even though Cassidy was fired on March 30, 2026, he is still under contract through the 2026-27 season on a $4.5 million annual deal, meaning Vegas still controls his coaching rights.
Seravalli described the situation as unusual, saying, “Gamesmanship? Perhaps. Mostly unprecedented for the role.” For a coach who has already been relieved of his duties, teams usually grant permission quickly to get the fired coach’s salary off their books.
That decision sparked debate among fans online, with many questioning why a team can block interviews for a coach it has already fired. NHL analyst Marco D’Amico responded by pointing out the financial side of the situation, explaining, “You do [have power] if you’re still paying him.”
If Edmonton hired him, Vegas would likely only be responsible for covering the salary difference under NHL offset rules instead of paying the full amount.
Vegas May Be Playing Defense Against a Rival
Around the league, many believe the Golden Knights’ decision has less to do with money and more to do with competition.
The Oilers and Golden Knights have developed a heated Pacific Division rivalry in recent years, and Vegas may not want to hand a Stanley Cup-winning coach to one of its biggest rivals, especially with Connor McDavid still leading Edmonton.
Timing may also be playing a role. Vegas is still in the middle of a second-round playoff series against the Anaheim Ducks, making organizational focus a factor as well.
Vegas replaced Cassidy with John Tortorella in late March. While the team responded well under Tortorella, the decision to fire a coach who won them a Stanley Cup in 2023 remains a polarizing topic in Vegas.
The situation has also frustrated several NHL coaches, who believe fired coaches should automatically be allowed to pursue new jobs without interference.
One current NHL coach told Seravalli, “It’s ridiculous that we even need to ask for permission. It should be a formality, written into the deal that we’re free to seek employment anywhere, and should just be a formality that teams call to give a courtesy heads up.”
The Los Angeles Kings are also rumored to be interested in Cassidy and could run into similar issues if Vegas continues blocking divisional rivals from speaking with him.
Ironically, if the Golden Knights eventually allow Cassidy to join Edmonton, the organization would likely save millions in remaining salary obligations. For now, though, Vegas appears more interested in keeping Cassidy away from the Oilers than clearing money off its books.
This situation also puts Edmonton in a difficult position. The Oilers are already creating speculation about Kris Knoblauch’s future without having a replacement secured, which could backfire pretty quickly.
Still, Cassidy is one of the rare coaches accomplished enough to make that gamble worthwhile, especially given his playoff résumé and championship experience.
