Pete DeBoer’s three-year Dallas Stars tenure ends after three straight Western Conference finals appearances with no Cup. GM Jim Nill says the results spoke for themselves, while DeBoer notes the math didn’t add up. He pivots to Team Canada for the 2026 Olympics as the next coaching chapter beckons.

Armstrong and Cooper offered support, emphasizing that Olympic duties won’t derail his NHL chances, and DeBoer remains confident he’ll land another head-coaching job soon as the league’s coaching carousel heats up.

Head coach Jon Cooper will lead Team Canada with a familiar support staff into the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics after a successful stint at the 4 Nations Face-Off. Joining him are Bruce Cassidy, Rick Tocchet, and Peter DeBoer, all of whom contributed to Canada's championship at the recent tournament. The coaching team, including goaltending consultant David Alexander and performance analysts, is poised to leverage their past experiences to replicate success on an international stage.

Connor McDavid's pivotal overtime goal against the U.S. in the 4 Nations highlighted Canada's offensive prowess and resilience. With NHL stars participating again, Canada looks to reclaim gold, aiming for their fourth medal in five Olympic appearances since 2014.

Jon Cooper will lead Canada’s men’s hockey team at the Milan-Cortina Olympics, building on the success of the 4 Nations Face-Off. Key members from his coaching staff include Bruce Cassidy, Rick Tocchet, Peter DeBoer, and Misha Donskov. This group helped Canada win the recent tournament, showcasing their capabilities in international play. Connor McDavid's overtime goal secured a thrilling victory over the United States, further solidifying the team's potential ahead of the Olympics.

Cooper expressed excitement about the continuity and expertise the staff brings, emphasizing that players will benefit from their elite coaching experience. With the Olympics scheduled for February 2026, the team aims to reclaim the gold medal they last won in 2014. The framework of the coaching staff promises a stable and familiar environment as they prepare for the global stage.

Jeff Blashill has been appointed as the new head coach of the Chicago Blackhawks, marking a significant return to coaching after his previous tenure with the Detroit Red Wings. Blashill's record with the Red Wings was underwhelming, with only one playoff appearance and a disheartening win-loss record. His time in Detroit saw the team struggle through a lengthy rebuilding process, with the franchise enduring one of the worst seasons in NHL history during the 2019-20 season.

Despite these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope for Blashill in Chicago. He previously demonstrated success at the AHL level with the Grand Rapids Griffins, clinching a Calder Cup. The Blackhawks now have promising young talents like Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar, which could signal a fresh start. Blashill's recent experience as an assistant coach under Jon Cooper with the Tampa Bay Lightning may provide valuable insights to help guide the Blackhawks through their rebuilding phase.