John Tortorella will not return as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights
John Tortorella will not return as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights following a temporary stint behind the bench. The franchise originally brought in Tortorella after firing head coach Bruce Cassidy in March. Ryan Craig has since taken over the coaching role for the ongoing campaign. This ongoing instability behind the bench highlights a turbulent period for the organization, which has now cycled through multiple coaches while former bench boss Cassidy remains unattached and works with Team Canada.
Listen to Live Briefing
Real-time synthesized voice briefing · Live Feeds Desk
- ✓ The Vegas Golden Knights fired head coach Bruce Cassidy in March.
- ✓ Vegas hired John Tortorella as a temporary coach for the rest of the 2026-27 season.
What changed
John Tortorella will not return to the Vegas Golden Knights following his temporary stint.
Live updates
-
John Tortorella Exits Vegas Coaching Role
John Tortorella will not return as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights following a temporary stint behind the bench. The franchise originally brought in Tortorella after firing head coach Bruce Cassidy in March. Ryan Craig has since taken over the coaching role for the ongoing campaign. This ongoing instability behind the bench highlights a turbulent period for the organization, which has now cycled through multiple coaches while former bench boss Cassidy remains unattached and works with Team Canada.
Why it matters
The coaching carousel in Vegas reflects broader instability in the Pacific Division. Bruce Cassidy remains available after his dismissal, while his former club turns to Ryan Craig following Tortorella's temporary tenure. These shifts demonstrate how quickly NHL organizations pivot behind the bench during tumultuous stretches.
What is confirmed
- The Vegas Golden Knights fired head coach Bruce Cassidy in March.
- Vegas hired John Tortorella as a temporary coach for the rest of the 2026-27 season.
What to watch next
- Confirmation of John Tortorella's next career move outside of Vegas.
- Further updates on Ryan Craig's performance leading the Golden Knights bench.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (5)
- www.thescore.com — NHL Power Rankings: Early-season check-in | theScore
- zacelectrifly.com — Tahoe Knight Monsters Coaching Changes For 2026-27 – Zac ...
- sportmedia.tv — Pacific Division coaching instability and contract shifts
- www.iheart.com — The Ray & Dregs Hockey Podcast - iHeart
- sports.yahoo.com — Vegas Golden Knights News, Videos, Schedules, Roster, Stats ...
-
Bruce Cassidy Awaits Next NHL Job While Remaining Under Contract
Stanley Cup-winning coach Bruce Cassidy remains at the mercy of the Vegas Golden Knights while awaiting his next opportunity behind an NHL bench. Fired late last season by Vegas, Cassidy continues to stay close to the game by working with Team Canada. His fate remains tied to his former club, which replaced him with John Tortorella before Ryan Craig took over the role for the ongoing campaign. Cassidy is reflecting on his coaching career while he waits for another franchise to call.
Why it matters
Coaching changes in the National Hockey League often trigger lengthy financial and contractual standoffs between fired bench bosses and their former employers. Because Cassidy remains under contract with Vegas, his immediate professional future depends entirely on the organization's decisions. Meanwhile, the Golden Knights continue their milestone 10th NHL season under their current coaching staff.
What is confirmed
- Bruce Cassidy is awaiting another NHL coaching opportunity after being fired by the Vegas Golden Knights late last season.
- Bruce Cassidy's future remains in the hands of his former club, the Vegas Golden Knights.
- Bruce Cassidy is staying close to the game by working with Team Canada while waiting for his next gig.
What to watch next
- Whether another NHL franchise officially seeks to hire Bruce Cassidy for an open coaching position.
- Any formal agreement between the Vegas Golden Knights and Cassidy regarding his remaining contract status.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (14)
- www.prohockeyrumors.com — Coaches - Pro Hockey Rumors
- en.wikipedia.org — John (given name) - Wikipedia
- www.biblestudytools.com — Book of John - Read, Study Bible Verses Online
- biblehub.com — John Summary and Study Bible
- www.biblegateway.com — John 1 NIV - The Word Became Flesh - In the - Bible Gateway
- www.biblegateway.com — John 1 KJV - In the beginning was the Word, and the - Bible...
- officialkingjamesbible.com — Book of John — Read All 21 Chapters (KJV) | Official King James...
- en.wikipedia.org — John - Wikipedia
- www.preceptaustin.org — John Commentaries & Sermons - Precept Austin
- sports.yahoo.com — Ex-NHLer Kevin Hayes Reveals Reason Why Former Blue Jackets Forward Lukáš Sedlák Quit NHL To Return To Europe
- insidetherink.com — NHL Game Preview: Pittsburgh Penguins at Vegas Golden Knights ...
- thehockeynews.com — Former Golden Knights Coach Finds New Purpose While Awaiting ...
-
John Tortorella not returning as Vegas Golden Knights coach
John Tortorella will not return as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2026-27 season. Ryan Craig has taken over as head coach after Tortorella finished the previous campaign following Bruce Cassidy's firing. The Golden Knights begin their 10th NHL season with a home game against the Chicago Blackhawks.
Why it matters
The Vegas Golden Knights are entering their 10th NHL season with high expectations after reaching the Stanley Cup Final last year. The team has a retooled roster and a new coach in Ryan Craig. Craig previously worked under Tortorella and has spoken about the lessons he learned from him.
What is confirmed
- Ryan Craig is the head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2026-27 season.
- John Tortorella finished the previous campaign as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights after Bruce Cassidy was fired.
- The Vegas Golden Knights begin their 10th NHL season with a home game against the Chicago Blackhawks.
Still unconfirmed
- John Tortorella could be a candidate to coach a divisional rival.
What to watch next
- The Vegas Golden Knights' performance in the 2026-27 season under Ryan Craig
- Potential future coaching opportunities for John Tortorella
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (15)
- www.fox5vegas.com — Ryan Craig reflects on lessons from former Golden Knights coaches
- sports.yahoo.com — Fracassi: Las Vegas is the hockey town I always thought it would be
- lasvegaslive.show — The Golden Knights Lost the Stanley Cup Final in June ...
- www.prohockeyrumors.com — Vegas Golden Knights – Pro Hockey Rumors
- lasvegassun.com — Story archive for June 2026 - Las Vegas Sun News
- podscan.fm — Locked On Golden Knights - Daily Podcast On the Vegas Golden ...
- www.wral.com — Hurricanes News and Reporting Coverage, page 4 | WRAL
- sports.yahoo.com — John Tavares abruptly leaves the Maple Leafs
- heavy.com — Former Flyers Coach John Tortorella Could Land With ...
- bleacherreport.com — 5 Potential Coach Replacements for the Flyers' Rick Tocchet
- torontosun.com — Why Marner is back in the Leafs' orbit as road trip begins ...
- www.nhl.com — Craig chronicled lessons learned, relationships formed on road to becoming Vegas coach
-
Golden Knights Open 2026-27 Season Against Blackhawks
The Vegas Golden Knights launch their 10th NHL campaign on Tuesday night with a home game against the Chicago Blackhawks following a 10-day training camp. Ryan Craig leads the team as head coach for the 2026-27 season, succeeding John Tortorella, who finished out the previous campaign after Bruce Cassidy was fired. Vegas enters the new year with a retooled roster and high expectations after reaching the Stanley Cup Final last year, aiming for a return to the playoffs within a competitive Pacific Division.
Why it matters
The franchise transitions to a new coaching staff under Ryan Craig as it marks its 10th year in the NHL. This opening matchup against Chicago sets the baseline for whether the retooled roster can replicate last season's deep postseason run. Management expects the team to remain a contender in the Pacific Division.
What is confirmed
- The Vegas Golden Knights begin their 10th NHL year with a home game against the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday night.
- The team enters the season after a 10-day training camp.
What to watch next
- Performance of the retooled roster in early regular-season matchups.
- Team positioning within the Pacific Division standings under head coach Ryan Craig.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
- sports.yahoo.com — Blackhawks vs. Golden Knights: Opening Night, Lineups, Preview, & Watch Game 1
- www.hendersonsilverknights.com — Hockey Operations - Henderson Silver Knights
-
Ryan Craig debuts as Vegas Golden Knights head coach for season opener
Ryan Craig takes over as head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2026-27 season. The team begins its 10th NHL year on Tuesday night with a home game against the Chicago Blackhawks. Vegas enters the season with a retooled roster and high expectations after reaching the Stanley Cup Final last year. Craig succeeds John Tortorella, who took over late in the 2025-26 season following the firing of Bruce Cassidy. The organization aims to return to the playoffs in a shifting Pacific Division.
Why it matters
The Golden Knights have experienced significant instability on the bench over the last two seasons. Bruce Cassidy, who led the team to a championship in 2022-23, was relieved of his duties on March 29. This coaching turnover comes as the franchise attempts to secure its second Stanley Cup title.
What is confirmed
- Ryan Craig is the new head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2026-27 season.
- The Golden Knights open their 10th NHL season Tuesday night against the Chicago Blackhawks.
- The Golden Knights reached the Stanley Cup Final last season.
- The team replaced Bruce Cassidy with John Tortorella late in the 2025-26 season.
What to watch next
- The outcome of the season opener against the Chicago Blackhawks
- The performance of the retooled roster in the Pacific Division
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (10)
- thehockeynews.com — Golden Knights Open Season With New Coach, Familiar Expectations
- zacelectrifly.com — Vegas Golden Knights Coaching Changes For 2026-27
- bvmsports.com — Ryan Craig will bring a different approach to Golden Knights
- news3lv.com — Everything to know about tonight's Vegas Golden Knights season opener
- sports.yahoo.com — NHL Pacific Division Preview: How Far Can the Sharks Rise?
- www.thebiglead.com — How to watch Blackhawks vs Golden Knights: Live Stream NHL, TV channel
- www.latimes.com — Ducks sign defenseman Tristan Luneau to six-year, $43.2-million deal
- www.cbssports.com — Ryan Craig era begins as Golden Knights host Blackhawks
- sports.yahoo.com — NHL Latest Updates - Yahoo Sports
- heavy.com — Vegas Golden Knights news, rumors, and information - HEAVY
-
John Tortorella not returning as Vegas Golden Knights coach
John Tortorella will not return as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights. The team is preparing for the upcoming season under head coach Ryan Craig, who succeeded Tortorella. The Golden Knights aim to maintain their core roster and pursue a second Stanley Cup title.
Why it matters
The Vegas Golden Knights are gearing up for their 10th season in the NHL, seeking to continue their successful run as the most successful expansion franchise in league history. The team has reduced its training camp roster to 28 players, with several players competing for final roster spots.
What is confirmed
- The Vegas Golden Knights training camp roster is reduced to 28 players.
- Ryan Craig succeeded John Tortorella as head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights.
- The Golden Knights are preparing for their 10th season in the NHL.
- Bruce Cassidy, formerly of the Golden Knights, has found a new job with Hockey Canada's women's national team program.
What to watch next
- The team's final roster announcement
- The start of the 2026-27 NHL season
- The Golden Knights' first game against the Utah Mammoth
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (5)
- TribLIVE.com — Mike Babcock back in NHL as Oilers, 4 other teams make coaching changes
- sports.yahoo.com — Ten years later, the Golden Knights' standard of excellence remains high
- www.hockeyfeed.com — Bruce Cassidy finally lands a new job! - HockeyFeed
- sports.yahoo.com — Bruce Cassidy finally lands a new job!
- www.tsn.ca — Debuts, returns and rematches: Games to circle on this season's NHL calendar
-
Golden Knights Roster Down to 28 Players Ahead of Preseason
The Vegas Golden Knights training camp roster is reduced to 28 players as the team prepares to host the Utah Mammoth on Thursday. Several players remain in camp to compete for final roster spots. This evaluation period coincides with preparations for the upcoming season under head coach Ryan Craig, who succeeded John Tortorella after the 68-year-old coach departed to pursue other opportunities in the league. The organization plans to maintain its core roster while pursuing a second Stanley Cup title through a shortened training camp designed to foster internal competition and establish a new team identity.
Why it matters
Training camp decisions shape the operational baseline for the franchise under its new coaching staff. Roster cuts narrow the competitive field as players vie for remaining open positions.
What is confirmed
- The Vegas Golden Knights training camp roster stands at 28 players.
- The Golden Knights host the Utah Mammoth on Thursday.
What to watch next
- Final roster cuts following the conclusion of training camp
- Performance of players fighting for remaining roster spots in upcoming games
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
- www.reviewjournal.com — Golden Knights roster gets clarity following latest roster cuts
- ca.sports.yahoo.com — Bruce Cassidy Among New Team Canada Women's Hockey Hires
-
Ryan Craig assumes head coaching role for Vegas Golden Knights
Ryan Craig is the head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2026-27 season. He plans to implement a shortened training camp to build a new team identity and encourage internal competition. The organization intends to keep its core roster while pursuing a second Stanley Cup. This transition occurs after 68-year-old John Tortorella left the position to seek other coaching opportunities within the league.
Why it matters
The coaching change signals a strategic shift in leadership for the franchise. Vegas is attempting to maintain its competitive window by retaining key players under new management.
What is confirmed
- Ryan Craig is the head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2026-27 season.
- John Tortorella, 68, has departed the organization to look for other league coaching positions.
What to watch next
- The outcome of the shortened training camp
- John Tortorella's hiring status with another NHL team
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
- ca.sports.yahoo.com — Is Devils Seldon Keefe On The Hot Seat? Should He Be?
- www.theglobeandmail.com — Babcock’s return to the NHL highlights off-season coaching changes
-
Ryan Craig leads Vegas Golden Knights into 10th NHL season
Ryan Craig has taken over as head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2026-27 season. Craig stated the team is starting over and will use a shortened training camp to foster internal competition and establish a new identity. The organization aims to win its second Stanley Cup while maintaining its core roster. This leadership change follows the departure of 68-year-old John Tortorella, who is looking for other coaching positions within the league.
Why it matters
Vegas fell two wins short of a championship in their previous run. The team now competes in a Pacific Division that ranked as the worst in the league last season.
What is confirmed
- Ryan Craig is the head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2026-27 season.
- The Vegas Golden Knights are entering their 10th season as an NHL franchise.
- John Tortorella is 68 years old.
What to watch next
- Results of the internal competition during the shortened training camp
- Updates on John Tortorella's search for a new coaching role
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (3)
- www.nytimes.com — NHL Bizarro-meter 2026: Which Western Conference team had the weirdest offseason?
- www.nhl.com — Craig on Golden Knights' mindset entering season: 'We're starting over'
- sports.yahoo.com — Knights return to the ice with clock ticking
-
Ryan Craig takes over as Vegas Golden Knights head coach
Ryan Craig is the new head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2026-27 season. He replaces John Tortorella, 68, who is seeking other coaching opportunities in the league. The organization signed Olofsson to replace Dorofeyev as they attempt to win a Stanley Cup after falling two wins short in their previous run. The team now operates within a Pacific Division that was the worst in the league last season.
Why it matters
The coaching change comes as the Golden Knights attempt to bridge the gap between a deep playoff run and a championship. Management must now determine if Craig can preserve the team's identity while filling roster holes. This transition occurs amidst a broader struggle for stability across the Pacific Division.
What is confirmed
- Ryan Craig is the new head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights.
- John Tortorella is 68 years old.
- The Golden Knights signed Olofsson to replace Dorofeyev.
What to watch next
- Performance of Ryan Craig in the 2026-27 season opening games
- Confirmation of John Tortorella signing with another NHL team
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
- thehockeywriters.com — Rick Tocchet Attempting to Break Flyers’ Second-Year Coaching Woes
- www.rotowire.com — Metropolitan Division 2026-27 Preview: Fantasy Hockey Outlook for Every Team
- www.yardbarker.com — 'I Peed My Pants': Erin Andrews Shares Bizarre Moment NHL Player Nearly Ran Her Over
- www.sportsnet.ca — Best, worst scenarios for every Pacific Division team
-
Ryan Craig takes over as Vegas Golden Knights head coach
Ryan Craig is the new head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights following the departure of John Tortorella. The team enters the 2026-27 season aiming for a Stanley Cup after a previous run ended two wins short of the title. To bolster the roster, the organization signed Olofsson to replace Dorofeyev. Tortorella, 68, remains open to future coaching roles in the league. Current organizational concerns center on whether Craig can maintain the team's existing identity while addressing specific roster gaps.
Why it matters
The coaching change follows a season marked by a Stanley Cup Final appearance and controversial personnel decisions. The team's previous use of Carter Hart during the finals drew significant criticism. These shifts occur as the franchise seeks to convert its recent success into a championship.
What is confirmed
- Ryan Craig is the new head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights.
- John Tortorella will not return as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights.
- The Golden Knights signed Olofsson to replace Dorofeyev.
- The team reached the Stanley Cup Final but fell two wins short of the title.
Still unconfirmed
- Critics describe the decision to use Carter Hart during the Stanley Cup Final as one of the worst choices of the last season.
- John Tortorella is open to future coaching opportunities at age 68.
What to watch next
- The performance of Ryan Craig in the opening games of the 2026-27 season
- Confirmation of any new coaching hire for John Tortorella
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.ktnv.com — Seven local high school football teams stay in the fight to compete for traditional NIAA state title
- thehockeynews.com — Four NHL Coaches Most Likely To Be Called For Job Openings In 2026-27
- www.nhl.com — 3 questions facing Vegas Golden Knights
- www.nhl.com — Inside look at Vegas Golden Knights
-
John Tortorella remains open to coaching after Vegas Golden Knights exit
John Tortorella is open to future coaching opportunities at age 68 following his departure from the Vegas Golden Knights. The team previously announced that Tortorella would not return for the next season, hiring Ryan Craig as the new head coach. Tortorella's tenure ended two wins short of a Stanley Cup. To address roster needs, the Golden Knights signed Olofsson to replace Dorofeyev. Meanwhile, critics have labeled the team's decision to use Carter Hart during the Stanley Cup Final as one of the worst choices of the last season.
Why it matters
Tortorella served as an interim coach and led the franchise to the Stanley Cup Final. His exit marks a transition in leadership for a team seeking to rectify previous postseason tactical errors. The hiring of Ryan Craig signals a shift in the Golden Knights' coaching strategy.
What is confirmed
- The Vegas Golden Knights hired Ryan Craig as the new head coach.
- John Tortorella will not return as coach for the next season.
- The Golden Knights signed Olofsson to help replace Dorofeyev.
Still unconfirmed
- John Tortorella is still open to coaching at age 68.
- The decision to stick with Carter Hart during the Stanley Cup Final was one of the worst choices last season.
What to watch next
- Announcement of a new coaching role for John Tortorella
- Performance of Ryan Craig in his first games as head coach
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.reviewjournal.com — John Tortorella still open to coaching at 68 after brief stint ends with Golden Knights, report says
- heavy.com — Golden Knights’ Stanley Cup Final Decision Named Among NHL’s Worst
- nationalpost.com — Sports Scores, Games, Schedules and Standings | National Post
- www.foxsports.com — SHEA THEODORE
-
John Tortorella not returning as Vegas Golden Knights coach
The Vegas Golden Knights have announced that John Tortorella will not return as coach for the next season. Ryan Craig has been hired as the new head coach. Tortorella previously served as an interim coach and led the team to the Stanley Cup Final. The team also signed Olofsson to help replace Dorofeyev.
What's confirmed:
- John Tortorella will not return as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights
- Ryan Craig is set to take over as head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights
- Tortorella previously served as an interim coach and reached the Stanley Cup Final
- The Vegas Golden Knights signed Olofsson to help replace Dorofeyev
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
-
Ryan Craig to replace John Tortorella as Vegas Golden Knights coach
General Manager Kelly McCrimmon confirmed John Tortorella will not return for the next season. Ryan Craig is set to take over as head coach. Tortorella previously served as an interim coach and reached the Stanley Cup Final.
What's confirmed:
- General Manager Kelly McCrimmon announced John Tortorella will not return after the 2025-26 season.
- Ryan Craig is the replacement for Tortorella.
- Tortorella previously served as an interim coach and led the team to the Stanley Cup Final.
- Joel Ward was named head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights' AHL affiliate.
Still unconfirmed:
- Joel Ward intends to move up to the NHL level.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (3)
- Will Joel Ward become the NHL’s second Black head coach? His peers have ‘no doubt’
- Deen’s Daily: Should Kadri Play the Wing?; Panthers Built For Many Years; Reaves Hopes to Keep Playing
- 'We Exhausted The Universe Of Candidates': Neil Glasberg Details Search Process That Landed John Chayka As Maple Leafs GM
-
Vegas Golden Knights Remove John Tortorella as Head Coach
General Manager Kelly McCrimmon announced that John Tortorella will not return after the 2025-26 season. Tortorella previously served as an interim coach and led the team to the Stanley Cup Final. Ryan Craig is the replacement.
What's confirmed:
- General Manager Kelly McCrimmon announced John Tortorella will not return after the 2025-26 season.
- Tortorella led the Golden Knights to the Stanley Cup Final as an interim coach.
- Ryan Craig is the new head coach.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
-
Vegas Golden Knights Name Ryan Craig as Head Coach
The Vegas Golden Knights have hired 44-year-old Ryan Craig to replace John Tortorella. Craig previously served as a Vegas assistant and led the team's AHL affiliate for three seasons. Tortorella led the team to the Stanley Cup Final as an interim coach before his dismissal.
What's confirmed:
- Ryan Craig is the new head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights.
- Craig is 44 years old.
- Craig spent the last three seasons guiding the team's AHL affiliate.
- John Tortorella will not return as coach after leading the team to the Stanley Cup Final.
- The Golden Knights lost the Stanley Cup Final to Carolina.
- General manager Kelly McCrimmon stated Tortorella hoped to coach the team next season but was told Ryan Craig would take over.
Still unconfirmed:
- John Tortorella felt "disappointed" that the team decided to let him go.
- The dismissal of John Tortorella was abrupt.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (9)
- Tortorella doubles down on Carter Hart as Golden Knights face elimination in...
- Craig named coach of Golden Knights, replaces Tortorella
- John Tortorella 'Disappointed' Vegas Decided to Let Him Go
- John Tortorella will not return as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights ...
- Report: Vegas turned their back on John Tortorella
- New report sheds light on John Tortorella's return behind an NHL bench
- Golden Knights Move Quick to Hire Head Coach John Tortorella's ...
- John Tortorella wanted to coach Vegas Golden Knights, who hired Ryan ...
- Golden Knights promote Ryan Craig to head coach from AHL
-
Vegas Golden Knights announce John Tortorella will not return
General manager Kelly McCrimmon confirmed Tuesday that John Tortorella is leaving the coaching staff after the 2025-26 season. Tortorella announced his departure during the Stanley Cup Final. The team is now searching for its fifth head coach in nine seasons.
What's confirmed:
- John Tortorella will not return to the Vegas Golden Knights coaching staff after the 2025-26 season.
- General manager Kelly McCrimmon announced the move on Tuesday.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
-
Vegas Golden Knights Part Ways With John Tortorella
The Vegas Golden Knights will not retain John Tortorella as head coach. Tortorella served in an interim capacity and led the team to the 2026 Stanley Cup Final. The organization is now seeking its fifth head coach in nine seasons.
What's confirmed:
- John Tortorella will not return as head coach for the Vegas Golden Knights.
- Tortorella led the team to the Stanley Cup Final as an interim coach.
- The Vegas Golden Knights are searching for their fifth head coach in nine seasons.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
-
Golden Knights name Ryan Craig as Tortorella’s permanent replacement
The Vegas Golden Knights will not retain John Tortorella as head coach after his interim run led them to the 2026 Stanley Cup Final. The team has promoted AHL affiliate coach Ryan Craig to replace Tortorella, finalizing the decision following a press conference by GM Kelly McCrimmon. Craig’s contract was agreed upon immediately after the Final loss. The move marks a full transition away from Tortorella’s short-term tenure.
What's confirmed:
- John Tortorella will not return as head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2026-27 season, ending his interim tenure that concluded with a Stanley Cup Final appearance.
- Ryan Craig, the Golden Knights’ AHL affiliate coach in Henderson, has been promoted to head coach and signed a contract to replace Tortorella.
- General Manager Kelly McCrimmon confirmed the decision in a press conference held the day after Tortorella’s departure was announced.
- Tortorella was hired as interim coach in late March 2026 with eight games remaining in the regular season.
Still unconfirmed:
- Unconfirmed reports suggest Tortorella’s departure was influenced by internal disagreements over long-term strategy, though no details have been publicly disclosed.
confidence 99%Sources used for this update (18)
- Tortorella won't return as Golden Knights coach
- Golden Knights coaching candidates: Who's available with John Tortorella out?
- John Tortorella not returning as Vegas Golden Knights head coach
- Lawless: Vegas Born Ryan Craig Takes the VGK Helm
- Golden Knights promote Ryan Craig to head coach from AHL
- Vegas Golden Knights Hire Ryan Craig To Replace John Tortorella
- Knights promote Ryan Craig from AHL affiliate to head coach
- Vegas Golden Knights move on from John Tortorella and officially name his replacement
- NHL world reacts to Golden Knights' John Tortorella decision after SCF loss
- Kelly McCrimmon holding press conference day after Tortorella ousted from VGK coaching staff
- Golden Knights, Ryan Craig Agree to HC Contract to Replace Tortorella After Stanley Cup Final Loss
- Golden Knights promote Ryan Craig from Henderson to Vegas
-
John Tortorella won’t return as Vegas Golden Knights coach after Cup Final run
The Golden Knights announced John Tortorella will not return for the 2026-27 season following his interim tenure, which led the team to the Stanley Cup Final. General Manager Kelly McCrimmon confirmed the decision after a loss to Carolina in the Final. Tortorella was hired in late March with eight games left in the regular season. The team thanked him for his guidance but opted not to extend his contract.
What's confirmed:
- John Tortorella will not return as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2026-27 NHL season.
- General Manager Kelly McCrimmon announced the decision, stating the team needed immediate impact when hiring Tortorella in late March.
- Tortorella was hired with eight games remaining in the regular season and led the Golden Knights to the Stanley Cup Final.
- The team thanked Tortorella for his guidance since joining the organization in March.
- Tortorella is a 67-year-old coach who took over mid-season and delivered a Cup Final appearance.
Still unconfirmed:
- Speculation suggests Tortorella may pursue coaching opportunities with other NHL teams, including the Edmonton Oilers.
confidence 98%Sources used for this update (15)
- Vegas Golden Knights Provide Update on Team's Coaching Staff
- John Tortorella's Future as Golden Knights HC Determined After 2026 NHL Stanley Cup Final Loss
- John Tortorella won't return as coach of Golden Knights
- I Hope John Tortorella Didn’t Bother Unpacking
- John Tortorella out as Golden Knights coach after Stanley Cup Final run
- Pros and Cons of the Edmonton Oilers Hiring John Tortorella
- John Tortorella will not return as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights
- Tortorella won't return as Golden Knights coach - NHL.com
- John Tortorella will not return as coach of Vegas Golden Knights
- Why Golden Knights aren't bringing back John Tortorella as head coach ...
- John Tortorella won't return as coach of Golden Knights - ESPN
- John Tortorella not returning as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights
Community Sentiment: How do you assess this situation?
Voice your perspective · Real-time aggregated sentiment from the Live Feeds community