Update On The Calgary Flames Head Coach Search
With the 2023 NHL Draft upcoming, the Calgary Flames are hoping to wrap up their search for their new Head Coach soon, and recently, NHL Insider Pierre LeBrun has given an update on the very crucial hiring process.
Reportedly, the Flames have reached out to former New York Rangers Head Coach Gerard Gallant, who has accepted the offer of an interview, meaning that he will play a key role in this hiring process, even if it’s highly unlikely that the team will want to pay a premium given the money going to Darryl Sutter over the next two years.
Beyond Gallant, the Flames have looked into a surprise candidate in the form of current Windsor Spitfires Head Coach and former Calgary Flames player Marc Savard, although his lack of coaching experience at a high level could no doubt effect his chances for the role.
From LeBrun’s new athletic article. #Flames pic.twitter.com/CZfwe5Hchy
— C of Red Central (@CofRedCentral) May 31, 2023
As many expected, it appears the search is going to come down to the three internal candidates: Mitch Love, Ryan Huska and veteran Kirk Muller, as it would not only be a cheaper alternative, but it would allow the team to have a quick adjustment period to a new Head Coach.
Ultimately, the two-time AHL Coach of the Year Love is expected to be the best candidate, as new General Manager Craig Conroy has expressed his desire to bring a youth movement to the NHL level, and given Love’s experience with Jakob Pelletier, Dustin Wolf, Connor Zary, Matthew Phillips and the future of the Flames, it seems as though he’ll be given every chance to win the job.