The Vegas Golden Knights will have a new voice behind the bench next season after the organization announced Tuesday that John Tortorella will not return as head coach. Tortorella guided Vegas to the Stanley Cup Final after taking over late in the regular season. However, his short stint with the franchise ended just days after the team’s championship defeat.
John Tortorella’s Golden Knights Tenure Ends
The Golden Knights confirmed Tuesday that Tortorella will not return for the 2026-27 NHL season. His contract expires on June 30, marking the conclusion of a coaching run that lasted less than three months.
Tortorella joined the organization with only eight regular-season games remaining after Vegas dismissed Bruce Cassidy despite holding a playoff position. The veteran coach quickly stabilized the team and led the Golden Knights through the Western Conference playoffs before advancing to the Stanley Cup Final.
Vegas ultimately fell to the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 6 on Sunday, ending its championship bid. General manager Kelly McCrimmon thanked Tortorella for his contributions in a statement released by the club.
“When the decision was made to bring Torts to Vegas, we needed an immediate impact to help us at a pivotal point in the season,” McCrimmon said. “His experience and leadership proved to be the boost we were looking for, helping guide us to the Stanley Cup Final.”
McCrimmon added that the organization appreciated Tortorella’s passion, commitment and professionalism during his brief tenure. Including the postseason, Tortorella finished with a 21-8-1 record behind the Vegas bench.
Golden Knights Players Praise Tortorella’s Leadership
2012 NHL Awards at Encore Showroom Inside The Wynn Resort and Casino. Image: MEGA
Several Golden Knights players expressed appreciation for Tortorella’s impact during the team’s end-of-season media availability. Defenseman Rasmus Andersson described the veteran coach as “a perfect fit at a perfect time,” crediting him with bringing confidence and stability to the locker room during the playoff push.
Defenseman Shea Theodore echoed those comments while reflecting on Tortorella’s leadership. Torts was awesome,” Theodore said. “He was really what our group needed at the end to kind of push us in the playoffs. A lot of credit to him. He was a fantastic coach.”
Throughout the postseason, Tortorella frequently compared his coaching style to that of a guidance counselor. He emphasized communication and confidence while working with the team’s veteran core. Per ESPN, Tortorella remains interested in coaching next season despite his departure from Vegas.
What’s Next For The Golden Knights Behind the Bench?
The Golden Knights’ coaching team comes into focus as the next season draws nearer. Vegas is expected to evaluate its current coaching staff, which includes assistants Dominique Ducharme, Joel Ward, John Stevens and Sean Burke.
League insiders have also linked Henderson Silver Knights head coach Ryan Craig to the vacancy. Craig has spent several years developing prospects within the organization and has maintained a long-standing relationship with McCrimmon dating back to their time with the Brandon Wheat Kings.
Meanwhile, Bruce Cassidy technically remains under contract with the Golden Knights despite being dismissed earlier this season. Reports indicate the organization has not granted permission for Cassidy to interview with division rivals, including the Edmonton Oilers, while contractual restrictions remain in place.
