The Ottawa Senators are having a rough go this season despite having a squad loaded with talent. With big names like Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stutzle, and seasoned players such as Claude Giroux, Vladimir Tarasenko, and Dominic Kubalik, expectations were high. But with an underwhelming 11-17 record and a six-game losing streak, owner Michael Andlauer decided to shake things up. Head Coach D.J. Smith and the longtime General Manager Pierre Dorion were the latest casualties in this overhaul.
Now, with a coaching vacancy, there's a chance for a fresh start. The team's core potential, coupled with a possible high draft pick, makes the coaching gig enticing.
Cue John Gruden, the former Bruins Assistant Coach who played a key role in their stellar performance last year. Gruden continued his success, coaching the Toronto Marlies to an impressive 13-7-4 record, topping the AHL North Division. According to Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff, Gruden is the top pick for Ottawa's potential head coach, bringing a winning pedigree, including leading the OHL Hamilton Bulldogs to a championship in 2016-2018.
Seravalli also points to Jay Woodcroft, the former Edmonton Oilers Coach, and Dean Evason, the former Minnesota Wild Coach, as strong contenders. It seems the Senators are at a crucial crossroads, searching for a leader who can unlock the full potential of their talented roster and guide them toward success.
