NHL Rumors: "6 to 7 Teams" In The Hunt For Barry Trotz

It seems that the hottest free agent on the market in the NHL this summer will be a coach. According to the latest rumors, there are at least half a dozen teams "in" on deposed New York Islanders head coach Barry Trotz. 

Hearing as many as 6-7 @NHL teams have reached out to Barry Trotz camp. Clubs under the impression the price tag could fall in the 6m per range. Doesn’t sound like any decision is imminent at this point. @FAN590 @Sportsnet #RealKyperandBourne

— Nick Kypreos (@RealKyper) May 20, 2022

Sportsnet hockey analyst Nick Kypreos says that as many as 6-7 teams have reached out to Trotz. Kipper goes on to state that clubs are likely looking at a price tag in the $6M per year range. 

Trotz had already been linked to the Winnipeg Jets earlier in the week, the Philadelphia Flyers will be meeting with him "soon" (though not today as originally thought), and even the Chicago Black Hawks appear to have entered the fray.

I’m told the #Blackhawks are indeed among the teams that have reached out to Barry Trotz about their coaching vacancy, but understand he’s likely not interested in leading a rebuild. Regardless, due diligence is being done.

— Jay Zawaski (@jayzawaski) May 20, 2022

As Blackhawks beat writer Jay Zawaski reports, however, it's a longshot as Trotz is unlikely to be interested in overseeing a rebuild (which would also, of course, be the case with the Flyers).

The 59-year-old coach took the Islanders to two straight Conference Finals, on the heels of winning the Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals. The Isles missed the playoffs this season however, as the team shockingly decided to cut ties. 

Photo Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports