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Is Phil Housley Becoming The Coaching Front-Runner?

May 25, 2017, 3:08 PM ET [6 Comments]
Dan Spiegel
Florida Panthers Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT


Look no further than how well the young defensive core for Nashville is playing to understand why GM Dale Tallon is going to wait to name Florida's new head coach.

The most inconsistent unit on the Panthers this season was the defense. One night they'd look like they could shut down anyone. The next night they'd become a sieve putting extra pressure on the offense just to keep up.

Predators assistant coach and Hall of Fame defenseman Phil Housley has only been on the job for four years, but his knowledge as a player has translated into being a quality coach that everyone respects.

“He brings such a different element to coaching because of the player he was,” said Nashvile defenseman P.K. Subban. “He sees the game unlike probably anyone else who’s ever played the game. When he talks, all that matters to me is what is coming out of his mouth.”

Tallon mentioned he wants a coach that is contemporary and has the ability to relate to younger players.

That is why Denver University's Jim Montgomery has already received two interviews. He's young, energetic, and has won at every level he's coached.

But there is something to be said for someone who has succeeded at every level of the NHL.

Housley fits that bill perfectly.

Playing in 1495 games, he has played the most games of any player in history and not win a Cup. His closest chance came with Washington in 1998 where the Red Wings swept them in the Finals.

He scored 338 goals and amassed 1232 points in his illustrious career. Playing for Winnipeg in 1992-93, Housley recorded an astounding 97 points...as a defenseman.

Even though Montgomery is coming off a Division I National Championship and has also won at different levels of minor league hockey, he has yet to be given the opportunity to show his worth and is an unknown commodity on the big stage.

That is not to say he won't get his chance someday. He absolutely will. Perhaps Tallon thinks he is the man to beat already.

With Nashville now in the Stanley Cup Finals, Housley's stock continues to rise. This experience will only make him better after his inevitable promotion.

The Florida Panthers are only one year removed from their most successful regular season in franchise history. With a young, talented roster to work with a potential Cup-winning coach could be exactly what this franchise needs to get back on track immediately.

Housley and Tallon have history together and worked directly in constructing the U.S. roster and winning the gold medal at the 2013 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships.

Obviously there is mutual respect between the two.

The only issue for Tallon signing Housley if he so chooses is the Buffalo Sabres.

Buffalo also has a coaching vacancy and reportedly will be going hard after Housley as well. Housley was drafted 6th overall by the Sabres where he spent the first eight of his 21 years as a pro.

Housley's loyalty to the team that drafted him could be the only thing that keeps Tallon from getting a coach that is increasingly becoming the hottest coach on the market.

Considering no state income tax and great weather all year round, Florida would have to be seriously considered the favorite if the choice came down to those two franchises for Housley.

Another big factor is from top to bottom Florida is more suited to win now than the Sabres, although both franchises are on the rise.

Panther fans are becoming impatient after such a turbulent year. The masses starving for stability got what they wanted when the reigns were fully given back to Tallon in 2017 and beyond. Naming a head coach is next.

This isn't the same situation as the mid-2000s where the coaching carousel did little to inspire confidence. The team assembled is dangerous and can do some great things with the proper guidance starting next season.

Because of how close this team is becoming serious contenders, patience is vital to getting the right fit.

All it will take is one interview to know whether Housley wants it or Montgomery is the better fit. Winning the Stanley Cup would likely allow Housley to choose where he wants to go.

Regardless, there is much to be excited about in terms of a new, QUALIFIED voice being behind the bench for the Florida Panthers. In a few weeks all will be revealed.

Dan Spiegel
Florida Panthers Media
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