The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly zeroing in on former Vegas Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy as their top candidate for the head coaching position, according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman. Speaking on the FAN Hockey Show in Toronto, Friedman stated that the Oilers are aggressively pursuing Cassidy, despite general manager Stan Bowman's public statements that the team would conduct a thorough interview process.
Earlier reports indicated that the Oilers had requested permission from the Golden Knights to speak with Cassidy, but that request was denied. Friedman noted, "They're not waiting. The only reason this played out the way it did was they tried to do it quietly and it got out. If you're the Oilers, you're going after them and you're getting it done."
Friedman suggested that the Golden Knights may have been reluctant to grant permission while they were still in their playoff series but could be more open after its conclusion. He also highlighted financial considerations, noting that Vegas might want to ensure they are not liable for Cassidy's $4.5 million salary if he is hired elsewhere. "There is some suspicion that the Golden Knights wanted to make sure that if Cassidy is hired, they will not have to pay him at all next year," Friedman added.
Contrary to earlier reports, Friedman dismissed the idea that the Los Angeles Kings had already spoken with Cassidy. He also downplayed speculation about other candidates like Craig Berube, asserting that the Oilers' focus remains squarely on Cassidy. "To me, it seems like this whole thing is because of Cassidy," Friedman said. "I don't think Edmonton is apologizing at all. They had targeted him or someone like him."
Bowman has maintained that the Oilers are not solely focused on Cassidy and are considering other candidates, including Peter Laviolette, Craig Berube, and possibly Barry Trotz. However, Friedman's sources suggest that Cassidy is the primary target, and the Oilers are eager to finalize a deal as quickly as possible.
The situation remains fluid, with the Golden Knights holding the key to Cassidy's availability. If permission is eventually granted, an announcement could come soon. Until then, the Oilers appear prepared to wait, but not without actively pursuing their preferred candidate.
