VGK Fire Head Coach Pete DeBoer

VGK Fire Head Coach Pete DeBoer

Missing the playoffs for the first time in team history was sure to cost somebody their job. It would appear that man is Pete DeBoer who becomes the lucky one to fall on the sword of despair. General manager Kelly McCrimmon has announced that DeBoer has been relieved of his duties.

The team has already put out a statement on the news:

VEGAS (May 16, 2022) – Vegas Golden Knights General Manager Kelly McCrimmon announced today, May 16, changes to the team’s coaching staff: Pete DeBoer has been relieved of his coaching duties.

“We would like to thank Pete DeBoer for his commitment to the Vegas Golden Knights over the past three seasons,” said Vegas Golden Knights General Manager Kelly McCrimmon. “Since joining the organization, Pete and his staff have guided us through some of the most unique and challenging circumstances we’ve witnessed since our franchise entered the NHL. After lengthy discussions over the last two weeks, we believe that a new coach will put us in the best position to succeed next season.”

DeBoer, 53, has been a winning coach in the NHL for a long time. DeBoer guided the New Jersey Devils to a Stanley Cup appearance in 2011-12. He did the same for San Jose in 2015-16 and is credited with the development of Brent Burns becoming the stud defensive he transformed into with the Sharks.

DeBoer had a successful run in Vegas compiling a coaching record of 98-50-12 during his run with the Knights. The loss to Montreal last year left a sour taste in every fans mouth which was followed up by a stinker injury plagued season. It’s reasonable why Vegas felt like a change was needed but DeBoer has proven himself to be a competent option and will find another job sooner than later.

The word on the street is this could be the landing spot for Barry Trotz. If that’s the case, it’s not hard to see why Vegas pulled the rug from under DeBoer. The Islanders moved on from Trotz in a questionable move this offseason and is somebody who is viewed as a defensive coaching genius. I’m not sure any VGK fan can complain if Trotz is the guy. Time will tell if Trotz or someone else lands the eventual gig.