Predict the Sens Next Coach (Version 2.0)

KK also won the gold at the U-18's a year ago.

Big Ev wrote:KK also won the gold at the U-18's a year ago.

The more I think about it, the more sure I am that this is our guy. I think he can continue what CC and Spezza started with his development as well by pushing him. He can also possibly make guys like Z.Smith more than just 4th line plugs.

If he brings the same 'team' mentality to the Sens, it would be something we lacked until Murray gutted the roster at the deadline and the kids started coming in. Perhaps KK can continue the mentality and have the team playing as a group - and thus, winning some games.

Virtually no rumours seem to suggest that KK will be the guy, barring an epic collapse in this series.

Big Ev wrote:I would definitely like KK as Sens head coach. If he wins the Calder Cup, I'm not sure that gives him an advantage over guys like Muller who have NHL experience, but KK should definitely be a strong candidate for the job.

He was an assistant for the NJ Devils when they went to the finals in 01-02 so he has some NHL experience. I think people are reaching for arguments in favor of hiring Muller because he's the "sexy" choice.

It's a tough call all around. BM can't possibly hire another coach who turns out to be a bust, and still expect to be employed (regardless of that contract extension). He has to consider this one carefully, and a relative no-name might scare him off or it attract him. Ditto with vet coaches.

The question is, will we hire the best man, or the man least likely to fail awfully? The two ideas aren't the same.

SeawaySensFan wrote:

Big Ev wrote:I would definitely like KK as Sens head coach. If he wins the Calder Cup, I'm not sure that gives him an advantage over guys like Muller who have NHL experience, but KK should definitely be a strong candidate for the job.

He was an assistant for the NJ Devils when they went to the finals in 01-02 so he has some NHL experience. I think people are reaching for arguments in favor of hiring Muller because he's the "sexy" choice.

Muller has a lot more NHL experience and he's pretty much the main communicator on the Habs. He's been behind the bench for like5 years now I believe? Obviously we have no idea who would make a better coach, but I think KK and Muller are similar (and Muller has real NHL experience as a player, something KK never had. That could be an advantage).

Big Ev wrote:

SeawaySensFan wrote:

Big Ev wrote:I would definitely like KK as Sens head coach. If he wins the Calder Cup, I'm not sure that gives him an advantage over guys like Muller who have NHL experience, but KK should definitely be a strong candidate for the job.

He was an assistant for the NJ Devils when they went to the finals in 01-02 so he has some NHL experience. I think people are reaching for arguments in favor of hiring Muller because he's the "sexy" choice.

Muller has a lot more NHL experience and he's pretty much the main communicator on the Habs. He's been behind the bench for like5 years now I believe? Obviously we have no idea who would make a better coach, but I think KK and Muller are similar (and Muller has real NHL experience as a player, something KK never had. That could be an advantage).

Right. On the other hand Muller has never been a Head Coach and any level. Basically, there is no way I can be convinced that Muller is a MUCH better choice than KK to coach the Ottawa Senators and I would have a tough time agreeing that he's even a slightly better choice either. If we were talking about the Montreal Canadiens, my opinion would be different.

rooneypoo wrote:It's a tough call all around. BM can't possibly hire another coach who turns out to be a bust, and still expect to be employed (regardless of that contract extension). He has to consider this one carefully, and a relative no-name might scare him off or it attract him. Ditto with vet coaches.

The question is, will we hire the best man, or the man least likely to fail awfully? The two ideas aren't the same.

A good point, but - I think if he hires KK, it'll be a 3 year deal and he won't fire him no matter what - actually, I would guess the next coach is here for a minimum of 3 years - no firings no matter what.

SpezDispenser wrote:

rooneypoo wrote:It's a tough call all around. BM can't possibly hire another coach who turns out to be a bust, and still expect to be employed (regardless of that contract extension). He has to consider this one carefully, and a relative no-name might scare him off or it attract him. Ditto with vet coaches.

The question is, will we hire the best man, or the man least likely to fail awfully? The two ideas aren't the same.

A good point, but - I think if he hires KK, it'll be a 3 year deal and he won't fire him no matter what - actually, I would guess the next coach is here for a minimum of 3 years - no firings no matter what.

Book it?



Ted Nolan...

Flo The Action wrote:Book it?



Ted Nolan...

Yeah, I would book it. I think Murray would keep the coach even if we went 0-82. It would be him that gets fired before the next coach (IMO of course).

Ted Nolan...so much controversy around him. He really seemed to make himself at odds with the Isles and their management - and while he may have had some right to do that, it's a red flag IMO.

I'll toss a tweet to Joy and see if she'll comment on KK being a viable HC for Ottawa, but I know she thinks he's great, so I think I know her answer.

SpezDispenser wrote:I'll toss a tweet to Joy and see if she'll comment on KK being a viable HC for Ottawa, but I know she thinks he's great, so I think I know her answer.

If she thinks he's great you should ask someone less biased. I wonder what this guy would think?

It sucks as we get to know the process of prospects etc. a bit better. She's right, we need them to be nurtured and have success with a solid coach, or they might never be NHLers, but at the same time, I feel he's our guy...

SeawaySensFan wrote:
Right. On the other hand Muller has never been a Head Coach and any level. Basically, there is no way I can be convinced that Muller is a MUCH better choice than KK to coach the Ottawa Senators and I would have a tough time agreeing that he's even a slightly better choice either. If we were talking about the Montreal Canadiens, my opinion would be different.

Lindy Ruff and Joel Quenneville were never head coaches before they got their first HC gig either.

You either got what it takes .... or you don't.

They shouldn't let lack of HC experience be a determining factor.

Brad McCrimmon apparently will not return as assistant coach in Detroit. Ottawa bound? I'd be just fine with that, he's about ready.

Muller to Ottawa. Book it.

Big Ev wrote:Muller to Ottawa. Book it.

Perhaps. I've heard more than once that Nieuwendyk likes Clouston as much as Muller, so maybe they go with Clouston or even McCrimmon.