The Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) have lost their goaltending coach to the National Hockey League's Nashville Predators. The hiring was confirmed on July 8, 2026, by CTV News reporter Shelby Knox.
Details of the Hiring
The goaltending coach, whose name has not been disclosed in the report, will join the Predators' coaching staff for the upcoming NHL season. This move represents a significant career advancement from the OHL to the NHL, highlighting the coach's expertise in developing young goaltenders.
The Kitchener Rangers have a strong tradition of producing NHL talent, and this hiring continues that trend. The team's goaltending development program has been praised for its effectiveness in preparing players for professional hockey.
Impact on the Kitchener Rangers
The departure leaves a vacancy in the Rangers' coaching staff that will need to be filled before the 2026-27 OHL season. The team has not yet announced a replacement or interim coach for the position. The loss comes at a critical time as the Rangers prepare for training camp and the upcoming season.
According to team sources, the Rangers are expected to conduct a thorough search for a new goaltending coach, considering both internal candidates and external applicants. The organization values the role highly, as goaltending has been a strength for the team in recent years.
Nashville Predators' Perspective
The Nashville Predators have not issued an official statement regarding the hiring. However, the move aligns with their strategy to strengthen their coaching staff after a season that saw them miss the playoffs. The Predators have a history of investing in goaltending, having previously employed renowned goaltending coaches.
The hiring is expected to be officially announced by the Predators in the coming days, pending contract finalization. The coach will work under head coach Andrew Brunette and alongside the existing goaltending development staff.
Broader Context
This move is part of a larger trend of NHL teams poaching talent from major junior leagues. The OHL has seen several coaches and staff members make the jump to the NHL in recent years, reflecting the league's reputation as a breeding ground for hockey professionals.
The Kitchener Rangers organization has a history of seeing its staff move on to higher levels. Previous coaches and personnel have gone on to roles in the NHL, AHL, and other professional leagues. This hiring is a testament to the quality of the Rangers' program.
