NHL Rumors: Barry Trotz next Jets coach, and Malkin dismisses KHL talk
Anthony Scultore
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Barry Trotz interviewed with his hometown Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday.
The 59 year-old head coach compiled a 152-103-34 record in 4 seasons with the Islanders that included two runs to the Eastern Conference Final before they surprisingly let him go at season’s end.
For his coaching career, he’s amassed a record of 914-670-60-168 over the course of 23 years. He spent 15 of those with the Nashville Predators and 4 with the Washington Capitals, where he won the Stanley Cup in 2017-2018.
He is also a two-time Jack Adams Award winner (2015-16 and 2018-19).
NHL Rumors: Barry Trotz next Jets coach
Trotz is a Winnipeg native and would be an incredible hire for the Jets organization.
Many speculate that he is a shoe-in to land that job. Of course, if it doesn’t pan out there are several other options.
The Flyers are looking for a cultural change and Trotz would not only bring that but also a system that will finally address their defensive woes and likely extend the career of Carter Hart.
The Red Wings, who are a young and upcoming team could see Trotz as a long term solution to take them to the next level.
Finally, after dismissing Peter DeBoer, the Vegas Golden Knights would like a crack at interviewing him too.
NHL Rumors: Evgeni Malkin dismisses KHL talk
Malkin, 35, finished the year with 42 points in 41 games. He’s wrapping a deal worth $9.5M AAV against the cap and said he would love to retire in Pittsburgh.
“Pittsburgh, it’s my second hometown,” Malkin said. “I’m here 16 years, it’s amazing. It’s hard to understand what’s going on right now because we just lost a couple days ago. It’s still painful. But I hope we find a way to all be happy. If you play like 20 years for one club, it’s amazing. It’s a business, but I’m ready both ways. If I stay, I will be so much happier.”
One thing is certain, he’s going to play for an NHL team.
Rob Rossi of The Athletic relayed that Malkin dispelled any notion that he would play in the KHL next season.