Bruce Cassidy Blocked From Oilers and Kings by Vegas Contract

Bruce Cassidy told Spittin’ Chiclets on May 28 that two teams—the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings—asked for permission to speak with him, yet Vegas Golden Knights continue to withhold it until his contract expires at the end of next season.

Non-Compete Clause Extends Unemployment

Cassidy was fired by Vegas on March 29, 2026, after the team sat third in the Pacific Division with eight games remaining. John Tortorella replaced him immediately. The move ended Cassidy’s tenure that included the 2023 Stanley Cup.

His contract runs through the end of the 2026-27 season. NHL bylaws and standard non-compete language prevent him from resigning and joining another club without permission. Cassidy stated he cannot work until Vegas grants approval or the contract concludes.

The clause exists to stop mid-season jumps to better situations. In Cassidy’s case it keeps a fired coach idle despite external demand. He noted that resigning would simply forfeit his remaining salary while green fees still require payment.

Oilers and Kings both sought interviews in May 2026. Vegas denied the Oilers outright and initially blocked the Kings as well, citing division rivalry. The NHL Coaches’ Association later called the restriction unfair.

Two Pacific Teams Signal Strong Interest

Reports from May 12 confirmed the Oilers requested permission first. The Kings followed and conducted an interview with Cassidy on May 9 despite the ongoing standoff. Both clubs operate in the same division as Vegas.

Cassidy described the situation as upsetting because he views himself primarily as a hockey coach rather than a broadcaster. He remains under contract yet unemployed, with the two Western Conference teams representing his clearest path back to the bench.

The timing matters. McDavid’s two-year $25 million extension begins in 2026-27, raising the stakes for Edmonton’s next hire. Los Angeles seeks stability after early playoff exits. Neither team can wait until 2027 for Cassidy if permission stays denied.

Cassidy’s record shows consistent regular-season success and one Cup. His availability creates a rare window that Vegas’s stance now closes for the immediate offseason.

Contract Realities Limit Options

Cassidy explained that every NHL coaching contract contains similar language. Teams protect against sudden departures to rivals. The mechanism works in theory yet leaves fired coaches in limbo when new opportunities arise outside the normal cycle.

No other teams have publicly sought permission, narrowing Cassidy’s short-term prospects to the Oilers and Kings. Both sit in the Pacific, increasing Vegas’s reluctance to release him.

Cassidy’s preference for returning to the ice over continuing at TNT underscores his identity as a bench coach. The current impasse forces him to wait while his former division rivals evaluate other candidates this summer.