Salt Lake City, UT, August 21, 2026 — The National Hockey League (NHL) has experienced a flurry of coaching adjustments during the recent offseason. Several teams have brought in new leadership behind the bench, marking significant shifts in team dynamics and strategies.

The Vancouver Canucks announced the hiring of Manny Malhotra as their new head coach. This move sees Adam Foote depart from the Canucks’ coaching staff. Foote has since joined the Utah Mammoth organization.

In Las Vegas, the Golden Knights have appointed Ryan Craig as their new head coach. Craig takes over the role previously held by John Tortorella. Details regarding Tortorella’s next steps were not provided.

The Edmonton Oilers have named Mike Babcock as their new head coach. Babcock replaces Kris Knoblauch, who was removed from his coaching position with the Oilers. Information on Knoblauch’s future plans was not disclosed.

The Los Angeles Kings have also made a change, naming Peter Laviolette as their new head coach. This transition means DJ Smith is no longer with the Kings in a coaching capacity. Smith’s subsequent career path was not specified.

Finally, the Toronto Maple Leafs will see Jim Hiller return as head coach. Hiller takes over the position from Craig Berube. Further details on Berube’s future were not made available. These coaching changes reflect a period of transition and strategic realignment across multiple NHL franchises. The full impact of these appointments on team performance is yet to be determined as the league prepares for the upcoming season.

Story summarized from the original created by Brogan Houston on www.deseret.com, see more information here.

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