Golden Knights’ McCrimmon Accuses Oilers of Starting Bruce Cassidy Interview Mess

The Vegas Golden Knights aren’t about to take responsibility for not allowing former head coach Bruce Cassidy to interview with other teams, namely the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings. The team’s general manager, Kelly McCrimmon was a guest on TSN OverDrive Thursday and was asked why Cassidy’s chances to interview are being withheld. He said you can blame the Oilers for this turning into such a big story.

When asked why Cassidy finds himself unable to interview after being relieved of his duties, McCrimmon responded that he addressed this a couple of weeks ago and had no real update to share. He did add that “it’s only news because Edmonton leaked it.” essentially confirming that they did decline a request to interview with the Oilers.

“I’ve talked to Bruce as recently as yesterday,” said McCrimmon. “I know how he feels. I know he wants to coach. He’s a hell of a coach, and he’s anxious to get going. Coaches by definition aren’t the most patient people, so I understand what he wants and why he wants it.” He noted that he works for the Golden Knights and his responsibility is “first and foremost to the organization.” Beyond that, he wasn’t willing to reveal much, including whether or not the organization’s stance will ever change.

So, there you have it. McCrimmon is accusing the Edmonton Oilers of leaking the fact that they were denied an opportunity to interview Bruce Cassidy. The Oilers did not address rumors of them asking for permission, but it was clear they were among the teams who want to talk to him. The belief was that it wouldn’t have made sense for them to leak it, but perhaps they were trying to apply pressure to the Golden Knights and that backfired.

It also painted the Oilers in a really uncomfortable position and a tricky spot with then-coach Kris Knoblauch because it forced them to let him go after it became public that they were looking for another coach.

Cassidy also spoke, while a guest on the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast, said that the Oilers and Kings reportedly wanted to speak to him, but Vegas denied them while he remains under contract. “It’s upsetting…There was two teams that asked it’s public knowledge now, and I would like to talk to them. I want to go to work. I’m a hockey coach.”

Next: McDavid, Matthews Not 100% Committed to Oilers, Maple Leafs for Next Season Yet