In this edition of the hotstove we share our picks for the 2015-16 Jack Adams winner.
Todd Cordell: Pete DeBoer The Jack Adams usually goes to a) a coach on one of the NHL's top teams or; b) a coach that brings a non-playoff team back to the playoffs.
I think there's a good chance Pete DeBoer will fall into the latter group.
The San Jose Sharks still have a good core up front featuring the likes of Joe Thornton, Joe Pavelski and Patrick Marleau, among others, so scoring shouldn't be an issue.
They also added Paul Martin to a blue line that was already pretty good. If Martin Jones, who I like, can give the Sharks good goaltending I think the Sharks will be able to get back into the playoffs this season.
If they do I like DeBoer's chances for the Jack Adams. Going from 3rd last in the Western Conference to making the playoffs would be pretty tough to ignore.
Michael Pachla: Todd Richards I'm sticking with my Columbus Blue Jackets theme and going with head coach, Todd Richards. The Jack Adams Award goes to "the NHL coach adjudged to have contributed the most to his team's success," and it's going to take some big contributions from Richards to overcome an average (on paper) defense-corps.
The Jackets have an impressive group of forwards with plenty of skill and gumption, and they have a former Vezina winner in net, but the blueline, and/or the systems Richards implements, will make or break the team this season.
I believe it's a "make" and expect Columbus, because of Richards, to really surprise this season.
Tim Chiasson: Peter DeBoer DeBoer has a chance to bring the Sharks from third worst in the Western Conference back to the playoffs. Depending on how comfortably the Sharks make the playoffs, he'll have a chance at this award.
DeBoer has a playoff capable roster to work with, so the ball is in his court.
It's hit or miss whether this award goes to a legitimately great coach or a one hit wonder, which means that if the San Jose Sharks make the playoffs then Peter DeBoer will be in the mix for this award.
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