The Edmonton Oilers are determined to find an experienced coach capable of maximizing a roster built around championship expectations. At the same time, the Vegas Golden Knights have continued their strong Stanley Cup Final run under John Tortorella, fresh off a dramatic Game 1 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes.
These two storylines have unexpectedly collided, creating one of the NHL’s most hotly debated coaching situations. As the Stanley Cup Final unfolds, criticism of Vegas’ handling of Bruce Cassidy’s future continues to grow.
Elliotte Friedman Slams Golden Knights’ Handling of Bruce Cassidy Situation
Bruce Cassidy remains at the center of the controversy despite being fired by the Golden Knights on March 29. Although Edmonton expressed interest in interviewing the Stanley Cup-winning coach, Vegas has withheld permission while Cassidy remains under contract.
During a recent appearance on Oilers Now with Bob Stauffer, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman made it clear that while the Golden Knights are operating within league rules, he strongly disagrees with the approach.
Friedman explained that Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly confirmed Vegas is acting within its contractual rights. However, Friedman added, “I still think this is ridiculous. I really do.” He went on to say that he is philosophically opposed to non-compete restrictions because he has seen similar situations damage careers in other industries.
Friedman further argued that if individuals within the Golden Knights organization were blocked from pursuing a lucrative career opportunity, they would object just as strongly.
“I really disagree with it for two reasons,” Friedman said. “Number one, I work in a business where I’ve seen non-compete clauses, which are similar to this, ruin careers. I don’t think that will happen to Cassidy, but I am philosophically opposed to it, and I hate them. I’ve really seen them hurt people’s careers in our business, so I fully admit I’m biased and I have a hatred for them.
“And the second thing is, if Bruce Cassidy were to jump to the Edmonton Oilers, he would get an outstanding contract. And I just don’t like the fact that if some of the people in Vegas had that opportunity to get that kind of contract and they were blocked, they would be screaming bloody murder about it. So, I just don’t like it.”
The NHL’s official position remains unchanged. Daly stated, “Vegas is clearly within their contractual rights to do what they’re doing,” while also acknowledging that the organization is focused on a Stanley Cup run and may not want additional distractions.
Commissioner Gary Bettman echoed that stance, saying, “When you sign and insist upon a long-term contract, there are certain policies and consequences of that.”
While league executives have defended Vegas, the criticism centers on what many view as a departure from long-standing NHL customs. Traditionally, teams that fire coaches allow them to explore opportunities elsewhere. In this case, the Golden Knights have chosen to retain control of Cassidy’s rights despite the potential financial benefits of letting him leave.
Cassidy himself recently expressed frustration in a recent interview with The Athletic’s Michael Russo. Reflecting on the situation, he said, “It sucks getting fired in Game 74 when you’ve laid a lot of the groundwork. And then not being able to get out and get back to work is a double whammy, so yeah, it kind of stinks to be honest.”
The situation has become even more significant for Edmonton after another potential coaching option disappeared from the market. On Tuesday, June 2, Friedman reported, “Also, about Colorado: there is word that Jared Bednar is staying as the Avalanche’s coach.”
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This update effectively removes another accomplished candidate from consideration and places even greater attention on Cassidy’s uncertain status. For now, the Oilers remain in a holding pattern while Vegas continues its pursuit of another Stanley Cup.
Whether the Golden Knights eventually reconsider their stance may not be known until their season officially comes to an end.
