Allan Maki of the Globe & Mail has an interesting note on Ken Hitchcock up today, especially in light of Jacques Lemaire’s announced retirement.
Hitchcock was fired by the Blue Jackets just before the Olympics, yet he is still under contract for two more years. With four coaching jobs already open around the NHL, Hitchcock’s name will certainly be brought into the discussion. Keeping him withing the organization will ensure that Columbus actually be paying Hitchcock to work for them.
Even if he is available for other coaching positions, you wonder how many teams would be interested. Hitchcock struggled with success in Columbus as he continued to preach his defensive system, one that is perhaps a bit outdated in today’s NHL. Hitchcock, for a long time, was no doubt one of the best coaches in the game, but there comes a time when new blood is needed. With plenty of AHL coaches worthy of the promotion, expect their names to get the call.
