According to a recent report from Rod Pedersen, a well-known NHL insider, Bruce Cassidy is set to become the next head coach of the Edmonton Oilers. Pedersen, who hosts a podcast focused on the Florida Panthers, made the bold statement on social media: 'Write it down… Bruce Cassidy will be coaching the Edmonton Oilers this year.' This declaration came shortly after he posted a photo of himself interviewing Vegas Golden Knights owner Bill Foley.
Pedersen's Track Record
Pedersen has a history of breaking major NHL news. In 2019, he was the first to report that Ken Holland would become the general manager of the Edmonton Oilers. This credibility lends weight to his latest claim, even though the Vegas Golden Knights are currently blocking Cassidy from speaking with other teams.
Other Insiders Weigh In
Pedersen is not alone in his prediction. St. Louis hockey insider Andy Strickland noted that teams like Edmonton can find ways to communicate with Cassidy despite the block. 'You really don't think teams like Edmonton can't have back channel communication with Bruce Cassidy? There are certainly ways to talk,' Strickland said. He added that Vegas will eventually allow permission once their season ends, and if not, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman will step in.
John Shannon, host of the 100% Hockey podcast, has consistently stated that Vegas would eventually permit Cassidy to sign with another team. He reiterated this to Bob Stauffer of Oilers Now this week, saying, 'Yeah, I do think it will happen.' Shannon explained that the Golden Knights likely want to create a level playing field by waiting until their season is over before granting interviews. 'I do think and do expect at a certain time that George McPhee and Kelly McCrimmon will grant Bruce Cassidy an opportunity to interview,' he said.
What This Means for the Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers have been searching for a new head coach, and Cassidy, who led the Boston Bruins to the Stanley Cup Final in 2019, is considered a top candidate. If the deal goes through, it could significantly impact the team's performance in the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the situation develops.
