Welcome to RANKED

Get ready for the weekly rankings in the NHL with RANKED. Each week, we’ll be ranking players, moments, and other memorable events throughout hockey history. This week, the focus is on the head coaches who are feeling the heat, ranked from scorching hot to lukewarm.

We’re now one month into the 2023-24 NHL season, and teams are starting to reveal their true colors. With most teams having played around a dozen games, rough starts no longer appear to be just “poor luck.” The first move for any struggling team may be to fire the man behind the bench. In this edition of RANKED, we spotlight eight NHL head coaches who are on the hot seat within the first month of the season.

8. Ryan Huska, Flames

With a record of 4-7-1, the Flames are not living up to the potential of their roster. Fans in Calgary had high hopes for a Jonathan Huberdeau comeback after a disappointing first season as a Flame, but it’s been a struggle. As a rookie head coach, Ryan Huska may get some leeway after taking over from Darryl Sutter.

7. Andrew Brunette, Predators

The Predators’ 5-7-0 start raises questions about their ability to compete. While expectations weren’t sky-high, fans expected more from a team with talented veterans. This is Andrew Brunette’s first season as head coach, so he may have a bit of a buffer.

6. David Quinn, Sharks

The Sharks seem to be in tank mode, but their performance is worse than expected. With a historic meltdown to start the season, David Quinn’s job may be in jeopardy, especially with a roster of frustrated veterans.

5. Sheldon Keefe, Maple Leafs

Sheldon Keefe’s 6-4-2 record may not seem alarming, but the Leafs’ lackluster performance is raising eyebrows. With high expectations for the team, fans are growing impatient, despite Keefe’s new contract.

4. Dave Hakstol, Kraken

The Kraken’s shaky goaltending and disappointing 4-6-3 start may spell trouble for head coach Dave Hakstol. Expectations were higher after making the playoffs last season, and a mid-season shakeup may be needed.

3. D.J. Smith, Senators

The Senators’ 4-6-0 record and lackluster performance are raising concerns for head coach D.J. Smith. With several years of rebuilding and high expectations, some fans are calling for a change.

2. Mike Sullivan, Penguins

Despite solid additions to the team, the Penguins’ 5-6-0 start and lack of recent playoff success may put head coach Mike Sullivan on the hot seat. Fans are growing impatient as key players age.

1. Jay Woodcroft, Oilers

With the Oilers’ disastrous 2-8-1 start, head coach Jay Woodcroft’s seat is the hottest. With minimal playoff success despite having top talent, the pressure is mounting and a mid-season firing is possible.

Get ready for what’s to come in this unpredictable NHL season!

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