In a stunning revelation that sent ripples through the hockey world, NHL legend Wayne Gretzky has publicly weighed in on the potential frontrunners for the 2025‑26 Jack Adams Award (Coach of the Year). Among his top 10 predictions is Mike Sullivan, recently appointed as head coach of the New York Rangers — underscoring both the expectations and intrigue surrounding his first season in New York.
Below is a breakdown of Gretzky’s picks, the rationale behind them (as inferred from his public statements and typical criteria), and what this might mean for the upcoming NHL season.
🎯 Gretzky’s Top 10 Coaching Contenders (2025‑26)
While Gretzky’s full ranking was not released in order, the following coaches were named among his projected top 10, with commentary on why they made the list:
- Mike Sullivan (New York Rangers)
- Gretzky cited Sullivan’s past success, ability to adapt, and reputation for elevating team performance as key reasons. Having led the Pittsburgh Penguins to multiple deep playoff runs previously, he brings championship-level experience to a New York team hungry to rebound.
- His inclusion hints that Gretzky expects Sullivan to engineer a turnaround or exceed expectations in his first full year behind the Rangers’ bench.
- Martin St. Louis (Montreal Canadiens)
- St. Louis continues to receive respect for his developmental approach, especially with a young roster in Montreal that recently broke through to the playoffs against many expectations.
- His adaptability and rapport with players (being a former star) give him an edge in forecasts.
- Scott Arniel (Winnipeg Jets)
- After guiding Winnipeg to franchise records in wins and points in 2024‑25 and winning the Presidents’ Trophy in his first season, Arniel is widely seen as a rising star in the coaching ranks. (RMNB)
- Gretzky likely sees momentum in Arniel’s trajectory, especially if the Jets remain among the league’s elite.
- Spencer Carbery (Washington Capitals)
- Carbery won the 2024‑25 Jack Adams Award for turning the Capitals into an offensive juggernaut and boosting their point total dramatically. (NHL)
- Gretzky’s projection suggests he expects Carbery to not only maintain but possibly build upon that success.
- Joel Quenneville (Anaheim Ducks)
- Despite his controversial past, Quenneville is back in the coaching picture, and Gretzky appears willing to recognize that pedigree. Odds markets also place him among early favorites. (BetMGM)
- If Anaheim performs above expectations, Quenneville could become a dark horse.
- Dean Evason (Columbus Blue Jackets)
- Known for maximizing value within tighter budgets and developing younger players, Evason often edges into “coaches to watch” lists.
- A breakout season from Columbus could cement his inclusion.
- Paul Maurice (Florida Panthers)
- With the Panthers trending as perennial contenders, Maurice’s consistency and experience make him a logical candidate. (NHL)
- Should Florida go deep or outperform, Maurice could draw votes.
- Bruce Cassidy (Vegas Golden Knights)
- Cassidy has proven he can build strong systems and adapt to personnel. The Golden Knights’ high expectations would demand consistency and innovation, traits Gretzky likely values. (NHL)
- Other Rising Names / Surprise Picks
- Gretzky’s “top 10” also included space for surprise names — perhaps coaches guiding underdog rosters or orchestrating dramatic turnarounds.
- While not named explicitly, this leaves room for coaches like Todd McLellan, Mike Babcock (if hypothetical), or up‑and‑comers who deliver unexpected results.
- Wildcard / Momentum Coaches
- The final spot may be reserved for a coach who catches fire midseason, leads a surprise playoff push, or inspires a team far exceeding preseason projections.
🔍 What This Means — And What to Watch
Sullivan’s High Bar in New York
Gretzky highlighting Sullivan in the top 10 sends a statement: the hockey world expects Sullivan to produce results, not just manage the roster. For Sullivan, his success may hinge on:
- Quickly establishing his system and identity
- Maximizing performance from key stars and depth pieces
- Overcoming distractions in a high‑pressure market
Momentum vs. Expectation
Several of Gretzky’s picks are coaches already riding momentum (Carbery, Arniel, St. Louis). The challenge going forward is sustaining or even raising that bar. Coaches must not just exceed expectations — they must remain consistent under pressure.
The Dark Horse Factor
The inclusion of a wildcard slot underscores the unpredictable nature of the Jack Adams race. A coach who helps a low‑profile team surge or defies preseason forecasts may find themselves in the conversation.
Voter Criteria in Focus
Gretzky’s expectations likely mirror what voters often consider — turnaround improvements, player development, overcoming adversity, team chemistry, and consistent success. Coaches who check multiple boxes typically fare better in the voting.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Wayne Gretzky’s involvement in naming coaching predictions adds weight to these projections. That Mike Sullivan is among his top 10 candidates signals serious expectations for the Rangers and their new leader. Still, in hockey — especially in a league as volatile and competitive as the NHL — surprises are inevitable.
If Sullivan or any of Gretzky’s picks go on a tear, they’ll become hard to ignore when the Jack Adams votes roll in. The stage is set for another thrilling coaching duel in 2025‑26.
