Golden Knights Deny Oilers Permission to Interview Fired Coach Cassidy

The Vegas Golden Knights denied the Edmonton Oilers permission to interview Bruce Cassidy, their former head coach fired with eight games left in the regular season.

Vegas, tied 2-2 with the Anaheim Ducks in the playoffs, drew attention at season's end for the move. Cassidy had led the team to the Stanley Cup in 2023. The Knights replaced him with John Tortorella.

Cassidy, a past Jack Adams Award winner, became the top name on the coaching market. Reports say the Oilers sought to talk with him, but Vegas said no, according to insider Frank Seravalli.

The Knights face Edmonton in the playoffs twice over the last four years. They recognize Cassidy's skill but do not want him coaching a division rival.

Edmonton has no head coaching opening. Coach Chris Knoblauch remains despite a first-round playoff exit. The team might consider a change, but the report put any quiet talks in the open.

Other jobs could emerge. Toronto named a new general manager, which might lead to shifts there. Cassidy should return to an NHL bench next fall, though Vegas appears set to steer him away from Edmonton.