Blue Jackets’ Waddell Talks Vincent, Coaching, Laine & More

The newly appointed President and General Manager of the Columbus Blue Jackets, Don Waddell, hosted a media session at Nationwide Arena to discuss various topics for nearly 30 minutes. We will cover his remarks in two parts. Part 1 will delve into Waddell’s comments on the dismissal of Pascal Vincent as head coach, his criteria for the next head coach, and the latest developments regarding Patrik Laine. Part 2 will focus on the NHL Draft, Free Agency, the influence of the Cleveland Monsters, and a forward-looking perspective.

Addressing Vincent’s Dismissal

Waddell’s media appearance marked his first since parting ways with coach Vincent. He deliberated extensively before reaching this decision, emphasizing the need to thoroughly assess the situation as the general manager. After multiple meetings, he ultimately concluded that a change in leadership was necessary. Waddell expressed a desire to bring in an experienced coach, highlighting the team’s shift in priorities from younger to more seasoned leadership.

When questioned about specific reasons for the dismissal, Waddell refrained from providing details, emphasizing the results-driven nature of hockey as justification. The emphasis on securing an experienced coach suggests a reorientation towards a different coaching approach for the team. With regards to the ongoing search for a new head coach…

Search for a New Head Coach

Waddell disclosed that he has a roster of 12 potential candidates for the Blue Jackets’ head coaching role, although not all 12 will be interviewed. He outlined the deliberate nature of the selection process, stressing the significance of making the right choice rather than rushing the decision.

“We’re the only team in the NHL in need of a head coach,” Waddell stated. “The candidates available today will still be available tomorrow.” This viewpoint underscores the methodical approach being taken, which involves conducting thorough due diligence through discussions with general managers and players. Once the team is satisfied with their assessment, they will proceed with interviews, targeting a comprehensive review of all available coaching prospects before making a final decision.

Waddell was questioned about Joel Quenneville but deferred to the league, stating that Quenneville is still ineligible to coach until he is reinstated. In addition, Waddell mentioned that although Bob Hartley had reached out, he had not yet engaged in a conversation with him.

The process of selecting a new coach is anticipated to take some time, as Waddell emphasized the importance of making the right decision rather than rushing through the process. Due to this cautious approach, the hiring may extend beyond the NHL Draft and into the free agency period.

Regarding Patrik Laine

it was reported that he had requested a trade from the Blue Jackets before Waddell assumed his current role. Mutual interest exists in pursuing a trade, and Waddell provided an update on the current status and their preferred course of action. While they are open to a hockey-focused trade, they intend to explore all possibilities before considering retaining any portion of Laine’s salary.

“We’re still in discussions with his agent. He’s still in the program. Once he exits, which we anticipate could be any day or sometime soon, teams that have shown interest want to engage with him. At this stage, it’s premature to discuss financial aspects. Ideally, we hope to avoid salary retention. Our aim is to pursue a hockey trade first and extensively explore every potential opportunity with interested teams.”

Until Laine is cleared from the program, he and his representatives are unable to engage with other teams. Waddell anticipates forthcoming developments on this matter, which will provide insight into potential suitors. Certain teams, such as Utah, Seattle, and Chicago, have the capacity to accommodate Laine’s entire contract, while others may require assistance. If Laine is cleared before the draft, this situation is likely to emerge as a significant storyline on draft day.