Edmonton Oilers Shift Coaching Focus to Peter Laviolette Over Craig Berube

The Edmonton Oilers are shifting their focus in the coaching search, with Peter Laviolette now ahead of Craig Berube on the priority list. With Bruce Cassidy still facing resistance from the Vegas Golden Knights, the Oilers are exploring alternatives. Laviolette is emerging as a top candidate after a strong tenure with the New York Rangers.

Craig Berube, who was recently fired by the Toronto Maple Leafs after two seasons, remains a candidate but is not currently the favorite. According to insider Chris Johnston, Laviolette is considered a more viable option given his recent success and experience. Berube posted a 84-62-18 record in the regular season and a 7-6 mark in the playoffs with Toronto.

Meanwhile, Laviolette compiled a 94-59-11 regular-season record and a 10-6 playoff record during his two seasons with the Rangers. His results in New York suggest he could provide the immediate impact the Oilers are seeking. The 61-year-old has a proven track record, having led teams like the Carolina Hurricanes to Stanley Cup championships in 2006.

Johnston said: “Well, I’d put him below Laviolette right now. If we’re just sort of assembling this as a list, but you know they’re still talking to him. If that conversation hasn’t formally happened yet, it’s happening at some point in these couple of days. I was told that he was going to have a discussion with Stan Bowman about the job and, you know, I think you do have to consider your options… He’s certainly a candidate in the sense that he fits what they’re looking for. I just don’t see him as the top-of-the-list kind of guy based on especially what happened this season. It was a really tough year for him in Toronto.”

Stan Bowman, the Oilers’ general manager, is expected to meet with Laviolette in the coming days. The Oilers are looking for stability and success, and Laviolette’s experience and recent performance make him an attractive option. The team is under pressure to make a decision soon, with the start of training camp looming.

The Oilers are not the only team in motion. William Nylander has made it clear he wants to remain with the Maple Leafs, adding another layer to Toronto’s roster planning. The Maple Leafs face a critical summer in shaping their roster around their top players.

The Oilers are expected to finalize their coaching decision within the next week. Laviolette’s name is rising, and a formal offer could come as early as Monday.