David Carle NHL head coach landing spots: 5 NHL teams that should consider handing over reins to highly decorated HC

US World Junior team head coach David Carle has jumped to prominence on the heels of his team’s back-to-back gold medals at the World Junior Championships. Now, the University of Denver coach should be high on several NHL teams’ radars, according to insider Elliotte Friedman.

In the January 6 episode of Friedman’s 32 Thoughts Podcast, he discussed the possibility of David Carle making the jump to the NHL. Friedman stated:

“I just don’t understand how after this, somebody isn’t going to try to make this worth his while.”

In other words, one or more NHL clubs will look to entice Carle to join their ranks. As for Carle, he’s up to the challenge.

Earlier this year, David Carle expressed his interest in becoming an NHL head coach, stating:

“Throw in a team that has an opportunity to win, a great GM, the right term, the right dollar value - I have to listen to that if it's a life changing opportunity.”

Carle was reportedly interviewed by the St. Louis Blues and New Jersey Devils. While those clubs didn’t choose Carle, the stars could be aligning for Carle to get a much-desired opportunity at the NHL level.

So, here are five NHL teams that should consider hiring David Carle as their next head coach.

5 NHL teams that should consider handing over reins to David Carle

#5 New York Islanders

The New York Islanders have underachieved this year in Patrick Roy’s first full season as head coach. While the Islanders are still in the mix for a playoff spot, they’re dangerously close to falling out for good.

So, if the Isles miss the playoffs, a coaching change could be on the horizon. That would make David Carle an interesting choice on Long Island. Two of the Islanders’ top prospects, Danny Nelson and Cole Eiserman, were on the US team this past World Juniors.

Ultimately, the Islanders could be a good fit for Carle, though it remains to be seen if the financials work out.

#4 Nashville Predators

The Predators are another underachieving team this season. The Preds made a splash in the offseason but have lingered at the bottom of the Western Conference standings this season.

So, the club may move toward making a change behind the bench, making Carle an interesting candidate. Carle would inherit a mix of young talent with veteran leadership. This combination could help Carle have a solid foundation, potentially leading to a turnaround next season.

#3 Boston Bruins

The Bruins unceremoniously fired Jim Montgomery earlier this season. With Montgomery now in St. Louis and the Bruins naming Joe Sacco as interim coach, there could be an opportunity for Carle to step in and revolutionize the Bruins’ game.

Carle would be a departure from the Bruins’ grinding style seen under Bruce Cassidy and Montgomery. But then again, that’s what the Bruins could need to turn things around. The B’s have lost four straight and the new coach bump seems to be wearing off.

Perhaps Bruins fans will get a new head coach this summer by the name of David Carle.

#2 Chicago Blackhawks

The Blackhawks fired Luke Richardson earlier this season, handing the team over to Anders Sorensen. The Blackhawks have improved under Sorensen, but the Hawks may want someone with more experience coaching young players like Connor Bedard.

That thought would make Carle the best choice to work with a crop of talented young stars looking to establish themselves as the next generation of NHL stars.

#1 New York Rangers

The Rangers are in a tailspin. They’ve gone from Presidents’ Trophy winners to languishing at the bottom of the Metro Division. The team has already begun clearing house with very little results to show.

Ultimately, the next move could be a change behind the bench. Coach Peter Laviolette could be the next casualty on Broadway. That could open the door for the Rangers to make it worthwhile for Carle to step into one of the biggest NHL stages.

A coaching change could happen this season. So, fans shouldn’t be surprised if Rangers’ management moves quickly before another team swoops in.