Top 3 candidates for the Columbus Blue Jackets head coaching role after Pascal Vincent’s dismissal

The Columbus Blue Jackets announced the firing of coach Pascal Vincent. Vincent took over from Mike Babcock earlier this season following a confusing incident involving Babcock and certain players. Following a disappointing season with Vincent at the helm, the Columbus Blue Jackets will look to fill their head coaching vacancy.

General manager Don Waddell looks to shape the club’s new identity. With that in mind, here are three potential candidates for the Blue Jackets bench boss role.

Top 3 candidates for the Columbus Blue Jackets head coaching job

#1: Jay Woodcroft

The former Edmonton Oilers coach enjoyed a good run with the team in 2022-2023. However, a poor start cost Woodcroft his job. He was an assistant on Team Canada at the World Championships in May.

Woodcroft’s name has consistently come up across various openings. He was rumored to be a candidate for the Ottawa Senators and New Jersey Devils jobs. Now, he could become an option for the Columbus Blue Jackets as one of the league’s youngest coaches with experience.

At this point, Woodcroft may not be the Columbus’ first choice. Still, he could be an intriguing option for Don Waddell to consider. He has experience coaching superstars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

#2: Todd McLellan

Another former Edmonton coach, McLellan has been rumored for several coaching positions. He was reportedly a frontrunner for the Toronto Maple Leafs job. McLellan was also considered for the New Jersey Devils’ job and had interviewed for the Ottawa Senators’ role.

McLellan is one of the most experienced coaches available. He could help instill a positive culture among young stars in Columbus like Adam Fantilli. Additionally, McLellan is a proven winner despite never hoisting the Cup.

Ultimately, McLellan could provide the best balance between experience and attitude. He has a strong work ethic while maintaining positive relationships with players. The Blue Jackets could greatly benefit from bringing in an experienced coach to guide a mostly young core.

#3: Kirk Muller

Muller spent last season as an assistant with the Washington Capitals. While his name has emerged for several vacancies, such as the San Jose Sharks’ job, he hasn’t gotten serious consideration for the job at this point.

However, Muller was among the candidates interviewed last season before the hiring of Babcock. As such, the Blue Jackets could return to Muller to see where he could fit into the organization’s plans.

Muller is one of those assistants seemingly on the verge of getting promoted. If that’s the case, the Blue Jackets could make a bold move, but one that could pay off in the long run.