Which NHL coaches might lose their jobs soon

Every season, several NHL coaches on the hot seat find themselves fighting for job security. When teams struggle, front offices move fast to replace coaches sometimes faster than they trade players. The 2025-26 season brings several notable coaches under serious pressure to deliver wins and real playoff success.

Jim Hiller faces the toughest spot in Los Angeles

Jim Hiller has guided the Kings to back-to-back playoff appearances, but that might not be enough anymore. New GM Ken Holland expects more than just early exits he wants deep playoff runs. Los Angeles started rough with a 2-3-2 record and a negative goal diferential, which immediately set off warning bells. Here's the thing: Holland didn't hire Hiller in the first place. He inherited him. When a new general manager takes over, coaching changes often follow pretty quickly. If the Kings stumble again in the first round, Hiller's seat gets very hot very fast.

Other coaches feeling real pressure right now

Jared Bednar coaches the Colorado Avalanche, a team loaded with talent like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar. Yet Colorado keeps losing in early playoff rounds. Bednar has a strong resume, but even great coaches get fired when results disappoint (it's just reality). Jon Cooper leads Tampa Bay through a less dominant era than before. The Lightning need playoff depth to keep Cooper safe. Lindy Ruff in Buffalo faces constant pressure the Sabres haven't made the playoffs in years. One more disappointing season could end his job.

Why NHL teams replace coaches so often

Firing a coach is easier than rebuilding a roster. Trading away star players takes years and causes serious fan anger. Replacing a coach? Front offices can do that in days. Even Stanley Cup-winning coaches lose their jobs after one bad season. This fast turnover is just how professional hockey operates. New general managers especially love making coaching changes it signals fresh direction to everyone.

What signs predict coaching changes

Watch for these red flags throughout the season: teams stuck below a 50 percent points pace, goal diferential turning negative, and playoff losses piling up. New management hires increase coaching vulnerability dramatically. Early-season struggles matter more than most fans realize. If a team plays poorly in October and November, expect coaching discussions by December. Front offices don't wait until April to make moves.

Coaching instability shapes NHL storylines all season long. Keep your eyes on Jim Hiller and Los Angeles most closely they're developing the biggest story right now.