The Vegas Golden Knights are set to complete the regular season with a new head coach and growing attention around the team. Their results have been shaky of late, and the timing of the change has raised questions about the organization’s direction.
With a playoff spot still in hand, the focus is on how the group responds under a new coach who brings a radically different approach to the bench.
Insider Chris Johnston Pushes Back on John Tortorella Friction Talk
The idea of tension between certain players and John Tortorella has become a popular talking point since the coaching change, but one insider sees it differently. Speaking on “The Chris Johnston Show,” Chris Johnston explained that the veteran coach often appreciates players who prioritize defensive responsibility and a 200-foot game.
“Honestly, I think he’s going to love players who compete that way. I mean, to me, one thing that coaches always appreciate… is defensively they’re not players, even though they put up big offensive numbers throughout their careers, that cheat for their offense,” Johnston said.
He pointed out that strong defensive habits could match what Tortorella wants from his players. The roster features several forwards who have handled penalty-kill duties and received defensive award attention in past seasons. While Johnston noted that the team is looking to tighten up, he believes the overall effort meets the coach’s demands.
Johnston also addressed the playoff narrative around the team’s core and how it may affect this new setup. He said the struggles in big moments have been discussed extensively, but they should not be placed solely on the players.
“Now, look, maybe he’ll do wonders for their confidence when he gets in the playoffs,” Johnston said. “I think sometimes it’s been exaggerated… there’s no question the last few seasons in the biggest games they played, there was trouble breaking through offensively.”
He added that offenses become harder late in the season and often take different forms. According to Johnston, that change has not always worked in the team’s favor, but it has been a collective issue rather than an individual problem.
The insider also pointed to larger concerns within Vegas this season, including defensive play and goaltending. He explained that the team has trailed often in games and lacks natural shooters beyond a few names. That has limited their ability to finish chances despite having skilled playmakers.
Tortorella’s arrival comes at a key time, with only seven games left before the playoffs. He already picked up a 4-2 win in his debut against the Vancouver Canucks, which helped stabilize the situation for now. Still, Vegas remains in a tight race in the Pacific Division, sitting in third place with 80 points, and cannot afford many mistakes down the stretch.
With that context, Johnston believes this transition may not bring the issues many expect. Instead, he sees a short-term fit that could help both the coach and the roster as the team pushes toward the postseason.
