The Anaheim Ducks are aggressively pursuing a new head coach, with GM Pat Verbeek stating they want to hire the best candidate available. Frank Seravalli noted that they are leading the way in interview processes for vacant positions. Meanwhile, teams are vying for Mike Sullivan, who was released from the Pittsburgh Penguins after a decade, with several franchises already expressing interest. The Penguins are expected to start their own search soon, considering experienced names such as Rick Tocchet, Kirk MacDonald, and David Quinn as potential successors.

The 2024-25 NHL regular season has concluded, leading to an offseason of reflection for nine eliminated teams. Each team will evaluate their performance, assessing failures and successes while strategizing for free agency, trades, and the upcoming draft.

The New Jersey Devils showed resilience despite injuries and the absence of star Jack Hughes, bolstered by strong performances from Nico Hischier and Jesper Bratt. In contrast, the Columbus Blue Jackets made strides but struggled with goaltending and injuries. The Calgary Flames improved their identity but faced offensive challenges, while the Anaheim Ducks' youth showed promise, highlighted by Luka Dostal's goaltending.

Other teams like the Boston Bruins embraced a rebuild, trading assets for future potential but suffered a disappointing season. The Buffalo Sabres are desperate to snap their long playoff drought, while the Chicago Blackhawks are rebuilding around young talent. The Detroit Red Wings are seeking consistency to end their playoff absence, while the Nashville Predators and New York Islanders need to reassess their roster dynamics in preparation for a more competitive future.

The NHL coaching carousel is in full swing as the playoffs progress, with several teams looking for new leadership. Notably, Mike Sullivan has parted ways with the Pittsburgh Penguins, while Rick Tocchet has also exited the Vancouver Canucks. Speculation is rife around potential candidates, with David Carle and Joel Quenneville emerging as frontrunners for the Anaheim Ducks' vacant position. Carle, currently under contract with the University of Denver, has withdrawn from consideration for the Blackhawks job but remains a strong fit for the young Ducks roster, which includes promising talents like Trevor Zegras and Mason McTavish.

Quenneville, on the other hand, might not resonate well with the current players, especially after their experience under the previous coach, Greg Cronin. The Ducks are looking to build upon a recent improvement in performance, and many believe a younger coach like Carle would be better suited for their developmental phase. The team's general manager, Pat Verbeek, has expressed confidence in the Ducks becoming a competitive squad in the coming seasons, indicating they are ready to take the next step.

The New York Islanders are taking a methodical approach to their search for a new general manager, emphasizing patience as they sift through a large influx of candidates. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers are contemplating potential player moves this offseason, focusing on defenseman Evan Bouchard and goaltender Stuart Skinner, amidst trade protection challenges inherited from the previous management. The Oilers’ fans express a desire for upgrades, specifically in net and on the blue line.

In contrast, the Winnipeg Jets failed to maximize their $6 million salary cap space at the trade deadline, missing opportunities to strengthen their roster. With key forwards injured, their performance lacked the necessary scoring punch. The Anaheim Ducks are also at a crossroads, with questions surrounding their direction under GM Pat Verbeek. As teams navigate offseason strategies, every decision could significantly impact their futures.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have parted ways with head coach Mike Sullivan after a decade of significant successes, including two Stanley Cup championships in 2016 and 2017. However, with postseason appearances dwindling over the past three seasons, the Penguins opted for a new direction. General Manager Kyle Dubas expressed gratitude for Sullivan's dedication, acknowledging his lasting impact on stars like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Meanwhile, other teams like the Seattle Kraken and New York Rangers are also seeking new coaching leadership after underwhelming performances this past season.

Seattle's Kraken announced the dismissal of Dan Bylsma after a disappointing 2024 season, finishing at the bottom of the Pacific Division. The New York Rangers decided to part ways with Peter Laviolette following an inconsistent season, despite a promising start. The Anaheim Ducks' decision to fire Greg Cronin marks their quest for a coach who can help elevate their young roster to playoff contention. As the offseason progresses, fans can expect more coaching changes across the league.