The NHL insider noted that it isn\u2019t unusual, as teams often explore coaching options before making formal changes. The real issue is that news of the request leaked, putting the Oilers in an awkward position. It\u2019s unlikely the leak came from Edmonton or Cassidy, as both would have little to gain. That has led to speculation as to where the leak came from. <\/p>\n
Vegas has a reputation for aggressive, win-at-all-costs decision-making, and could benefit from disrupting a division rival. At the same time, it is also being reported that the Los Angeles Kings asked, so this isn\u2019t just an Edmonton thing. <\/p>\n
![\"Kris](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Kris-Knoblauch-Oilers-2-scaled.jpg\")
Jun 3, 2025; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch is seen during media day in advance of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Images<\/p>\n
One source wondered whether Vegas wanted to wait until the playoffs were over or get clarification on how Cassidy\u2019s salary would be handled if hired for less than they were on the hook for. All the while, Knoblauch is left twisting in the wind. Most believe he\u2019s essentially, but unofficially, been fired, and that the Oilers can\u2019t come back to him even if Cassidy is not hired. Jason Gregor reports that Knoblauch was not under the impression he was being replaced. <\/p>\n
There is a thought that the NHL will step in if this drags out, and it is expected that Cassidy will be allowed to interview eventually.<\/p>\n
Maple Leafs Fire Berube<\/p>\n
Craig Berube received a call on Wednesday morning informing him that the Maple Leafs were moving in a different direction. After spending several hours<\/a> with new general manager John Chayka and Special Advisor Mats Sundin on Saturday, during which they discussed every aspect of the roster, Leafs management ultimately decided to move forward with a clean slate<\/a>.<\/p>\n As per TSN\u2019s Pierre LeBrun<\/a>, \u201cBerube had two more years on his deal paying him $4.5M per so the Leafs still on the hook for that unless Berube gets hired elsewhere.\u201d<\/p>\n The Penguins Looking to Bring Malkin Back<\/p>\n General manager Kyle Dubas spoke with Pittsburgh media on Tuesday and was asked about the status of Evgeni Malkin<\/a> and if the veteran forward would be back next season. Dubas confirmed<\/a>, \u201cWe had a great exit interview with Evgeni directly, and great conversations with him and his agent J.P. Barry\u2026 So we would love to have him back, and we continue to work with J.P. on it.\u201d<\/p>\n He also seemed to indicate that the hesitation was leaving spots open for younger talent, but that, because no young guys have really stepped up, there\u2019s room for Malkin without pushing someone else out of a job. <\/p>\n It\u2019s unclear what the numbers or term might look like on an extension, but this feels like a formality. <\/p>\n