In a rare and exciting move, NHL legend Wayne Gretzky has weighed in on the upcoming 2025-2026 NHL season with a bold prediction: his personal list of the top 10 contenders for the coveted Jack Adams Award, presented annually to the league’s Coach of the Year.
Often reserved in making public predictions, “The Great One” made the announcement during a live interview on The NHL Network, sparking immediate buzz among fans, analysts, and players alike.
“There’s a lot of talent behind the bench this year,” said Gretzky. “These coaches are not only tacticians but motivators, and with the way the league is evolving, the margin for success is razor-thin.”
Here are Wayne Gretzky’s Top 10 Coach of the Year Contenders for the 2025-2026 season:
🏒 1. Rod Brind’Amour – Carolina Hurricanes
Still one of the most respected coaches in the league, Brind’Amour has Carolina consistently near the top of the Eastern Conference. Gretzky highlighted his ability to adapt and develop young talent.
🏒 2. Jim Montgomery – Boston Bruins
Montgomery is back on Gretzky’s radar as he leads a retooled Bruins squad through what many expected to be a rebuilding phase. So far, they’re exceeding expectations.
🏒 3. Kris Knoblauch – Edmonton Oilers
With the Oilers eyeing a Stanley Cup and Connor McDavid in peak form, Knoblauch has impressed with his calm presence and intelligent systems.
🏒 4. Don Granato – Buffalo Sabres
One of the more surprising names, Granato has turned Buffalo into a playoff contender. Gretzky praised his “quiet but commanding” coaching style.
🏒 5. Rick Tocchet – Vancouver Canucks
After a strong showing last season, Tocchet continues to impress with a defensively sound team that’s making life miserable for Western Conference rivals.
🏒 6. Derek Lalonde – Detroit Red Wings
With the Red Wings finally showing signs of life, Gretzky believes Lalonde could be a dark horse for the award, especially if Detroit breaks into the top three in the Atlantic.
🏒 7. Sheldon Keefe – Toronto Maple Leafs
Gretzky noted Keefe’s resilience amid media pressure and roster changes. With the Leafs performing well early in the season, he could finally get his coaching recognition.
🏒 8. Andrew Brunette – Nashville Predators
Brunette has quietly engineered a fast, skilled Predators team. If Nashville makes a deep run, his name will be front and center.
🏒 9. Martin St. Louis – Montreal Canadiens
Still one of the youngest and most energetic coaches in the league, St. Louis is building a culture in Montreal that Gretzky compared to his early Oilers days.
🏒 10. Mike Sullivan – Pittsburgh Penguins
With Sidney Crosby still competing at a high level, Sullivan is managing to blend aging stars with new blood. If Pittsburgh surprises, he’ll be a frontrunner.
🗣️ Gretzky’s Final Thoughts:
“What sets these coaches apart is how they connect with players. It’s not just about systems anymore—it’s about culture. Any of these guys could take home the Jack Adams.”
With the NHL regular season just weeks away, all eyes will now be on the benches across the league as this new chapter unfolds. Will Gretzky’s picks stand the test of the 82-game grind, or will a new contender emerge from the shadows?
One thing is certain: the race for Coach of the Year has never been more exciting.
