Published on: March 29, 2026, 05:00h.
Updated on: March 29, 2026, 05:00h.
- The Golden Knights parted ways with head coach Bruce Cassidy on Sunday following a disappointing 1-6-0 streak
- John Tortorella has been appointed head coach after a successful Olympic campaign
- Vegas aims to solidify its playoff position in the Pacific Division with eight games remaining
The Vegas Golden Knights made headlines on Sunday by dismissing coach Bruce Cassidy and replacing him with the highly regarded yet controversial John Tortorella.
General Manager Kelly McCrimmon announced the decision shortly after the Knights fell to their sixth defeat in seven games, which left Vegas teetering in third place in the Pacific Division. With the postseason looming just eight games away, McCrimmon emphasized that a leadership change was vital for the team to regain its championship caliber.
In his statement, McCrimmon commended Cassidy’s contribution to the franchise, noting he would always be held in “high regard,” but stressed the need for a “change” to elevate the team’s performance back to its standards.
Cassidy, who joined the Knights in 2022, led the franchise to its inaugural Stanley Cup win in 2023 and guided the team to the playoffs each season he coached. At the time of his firing, he had one more year left on his five-year contract.
Torts Takes Over
At 67, Tortorella is the fourth head coach in the Golden Knights’ nine-year existence. His coaching resume spans 23 NHL seasons, including tenures with the New York Rangers, Vancouver Canucks, Tampa Bay Lightning, Columbus Blue Jackets, and most recently, the Philadelphia Flyers from 2022 to 2025.
He boasts a Stanley Cup title with the Lightning from 2004, which is the same as Cassidy’s achievement. However, Tortorella’s coaching style has elicited strong emotions: some players are eager to play for him, while others avoid his teams at all costs.
Tortorella’s leadership is defined by a traditional, rigorous approach, where even star players are held accountable. If a top player hesitates to take a hit, they may find themselves watching from the bench, regardless of their salary or status.
During the 2025-26 season, he stepped away from the NHL to serve as an assistant coach for the U.S. men’s national team, guiding them to a gold medal at the Milan Cortina Olympics.
“By hiring John Tortorella, we gain a Stanley Cup Champion and one of the most respected figures in the NHL,” McCrimmon remarked. “His experience will be invaluable as we navigate this crucial stretch of the season. We are excited to welcome John to Las Vegas.”
The Golden Knights’ recent downturn was highlighted by a 4-1 defeat against the Washington Capitals on Saturday, intensifying the playoff race. Vegas currently trails Edmonton by three points for the second spot in the Pacific Division, facing a tough finish to the season.