With Todd McLellan no longer in consideration as a coaching candidate for the Buffalo Sabres, I’d like to stand up and throw a new name into the ring – Adam Oates. So Mr. Botterill, if you’re reading (which we know you are), pay close attention.
Usually, my motto about hiring a retread coach is “tread lightly”. However, the term “retread” applies a bit differently to Oates’ unique experience as the head boss behind the NHL bench. After serving as an assistant coach with the Tampa Bay Lightning, Oates latched on as an assistant with the New Jersey Devils, helping the team reach the Stanley Cup Finals in 2012.