Now, one NHL insider has floated a bold theory involving the Vegas Golden Knights, Connor McDavid, and Edmonton’s coaching search.
Insider Floats Wild Connor McDavid Exit Theory
At the center of the discussion is former Golden Knights head coach Bruce Cassidy.
Cassidy has emerged as the top candidate for Edmonton’s coaching opening, but there’s a major obstacle: he’s still under contract with Vegas. Although the Golden Knights replaced him with John Tortorella during the 2025-26 season, Cassidy cannot speak with other teams unless Vegas grants permission.
The Oilers requested permission to interview Cassidy last month, but Golden Knights general manager Kelly McCrimmon declined the request, preventing a division rival from pursuing one of the league’s most respected coaches.
The decision sparked discussion on the Oilers Now podcast, where NHL insider Frank Seravalli suggested that the Golden Knights appear comfortable paying Cassidy while keeping him away from division rivals and hinted that the move may be part of a broader strategy.
“Let’s be honest, let’s say the quiet part out loud, which is maybe they can rid themselves, once and for all, of Connor McDavid’s playing in their own division,” Seravalli said.
“Who knows if this all-important year goes sideways? They don’t end up having a good year and Connor McDavid’s unhappy. Maybe that’s what happens. Not outside the realm of possibility, that’s the situation. So, look, Vegas is ruthless, we know this, but in the end, it’s their right. The golden rule is, those who hold the gold make the rule.”
While Seravalli’s comments were speculative, they added another layer to an already fascinating situation. If Edmonton struggles again and McDavid becomes frustrated, questions about his long-term future with the franchise will intensify.
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Cassidy, meanwhile, has been frustrated by Vegas’ refusal to allow him to pursue what many view as one of the league’s most attractive coaching opportunities. “There were two teams that asked, it’s public knowledge now, and I would like to talk to them. I want to go to work. I’m a hockey coach,” Cassidy said.
For now, however, the Golden Knights remain in control. Unless Vegas changes course or the two teams work out some form of compensation agreement, Edmonton cannot hire Cassidy.
That reality could force Oilers general manager Stan Bowman to focus on other experienced coaching candidates as the search for Knoblauch’s replacement continues.
