NHL Power Rankings: 25 Players Who Will Make Great Coaches
It might seem like the successful hockey stars of today would make good coaches. This is not necessarily true. I remember reading an interview with the great Sergei Fedorov (translated on the Japers’ Rink site from Sovetsky Sport) in which he said: “Just because you’re a good player doesn’t mean that you’d make a good manager. There are some currents below the surface there that will whip your head around. You could lose your good name in two seconds. After all, you’re a hockey player, but you’ve been put in charge even though you plainly aren’t capable of this large role. This isn’t like some computer game where you can jump from level one to level 15. A General Manager is a very responsible position.”
Fedorov is of course speaking of the general manager position, but his argument could apply to coaching positions as well. The successful stars of today clearly have mastered the physical aspect of the game. However, hockey is not solely physical; it is equal, if not more, parts mental. And it is the coach’s responsibility to master the mental aspects to be successful. Some of the young stars have clearly mastered the mental as well as physical. But others haven’t quite mastered the mental, perhaps because since they are so successful at the physical they “haven’t had” to master the mental, so to speak.
Some guys just naturally have leadership instincts. And leadership instincts are the first important factor in a coach, along with a comprehensive knowledge of the game and the ability to teach. With that in mind, here are the players currently in the NHL who I believe will make excellent coaches based on their comprehension of the mental aspect of the game, on how they play on the ice and how they conduct themselves off the ice. (For the record, if Sergei Fedorov were still in the NHL he would top this list.)
25. Mike Komisarek
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American born Komisarek built his success based on the work ethic of his immigrant parents. His parents left Poland to make a better life in the United States. His father came to the United States with nothing, but built a successful business to support his family. Komisarek has said that’s where his work ethic comes in.
He played for the renowned Michigan Wolverines hockey team for two seasons before being drafted into the NHL by the Montreal Canadiens. Now an alternate captain with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Komisarek is beloved for his physical style of play and because he is quick to defend his teammates. Komisarek was selected to the 2010 Team USA Olympic squad but unfortunately could not play because of an injury. Komisarek’s experience and work ethic will make for a great coach once his playing days are up.
24. Ryan Miller
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Ryan Miller never really was fully appreciated until his incredible performance as the Team USA goaltender in the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver. Miller is reserved, but when he speaks, he usually has something important to say. Miller took the responsibility for that gold medal game loss, even though a lot of people basically said “What can you do? It was Sidney Crosby.” Miller’s explanation, that he was going to go out and try to make the block instead of waiting for Crosby to come to him, shows instinct and initiative. It didn’t work out the way he would have liked but Miller had thought it through.
Off the ice, Miller is just as contemplative. During the 2010 Olympic Games, MSNBC news anchor conducted an interview with someone they thought was Ryan Miller but in fact was not. This individual went on to say some absolutely ridiculous things, one of which was guaranteeing a win over Canada in the gold medal game. Once they realized the mistake, MSNBC had the real Ryan Miller on to apologize and Miller graciously accepted their apology. He said he just didn’t want people to get the wrong impression of him or that he had become so cocky with success.
Off the ice, Miller started the Steadfast Foundation, with proceeds going to help kids battling cancer. One of its projects is an annual fashion show with Buffalo Sabres players to benefit the cause. Miller’s compassion and his mental process will make him a great coach in the future.
23. Jose Theodore
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Theodore was underappreciated during his tenure in Washington. Sure, Theodore’s inconsistencies would drive any fan, teammate and coach insane. But he was an excellent leader. His veteran guidance I believe helped Washington’s current young goaltenders Semyon Varlamov and Michal Neuvirth start so successfully at such a young age. And in my personal opinion, those two goaltenders lost a lot when Theodore’s veteran presence was not re-signed and it’s showing in their inconsistent play this season.
But back to Theodore. While he’s struggled on the ice at times, these struggles will prove beneficial as a coach. It’s easier when your coach can relate to you and Theodore could relate to any goaltender through the highs and lows. Plus, Theodore is a genuinely good-hearted person. After the death of his infant son, Theodore turned his tragedy into charity with Jose Theodore’s Saves for Kids benefiting the NICU at the hospital his son was delivered. The program gives allotted amounts of money based on Theodore’s stats at the end of the year. He was awarded the Masterton Trophy at last year’s NHL awards for overcoming his personal tragedy. Theodore was certainly a deserving winner and will make an excellent goaltending coach when his career is through.
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22. Steven Stamkos
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Steven Stamkos is a 20-year-old who already acts and plays like a 35-year-old veteran. He sees the ice so well already at such a young age. Sure, he’s still got plenty to learn and improve on but he’s always displayed leadership qualities. He’s been fortunate enough to be surrounded by some of the best leaders to help mold him into the player he is becoming: linemate Marty St. Louis, retired player Gary Roberts, coach Guy Boucher and general manager Steve Yzerman to name a few. These role models will influence Stamkos not only as a player but as a person and leader as well.
His innate leadership has already shown in his friendship with teammate Steve Downie. Downie has a bad reputation. But he’s becoming a better player and less of a dirty player with the help of Stamkos. Stamkos’ presence shows him that he doesn’t have to a bad guy just because he’s been a bad guy in the past. If Stamkos already has that kind of impact on another player (a couple years older than him no less) at 20 years old, imagine what kind of effect he could have as a coach after a long career.
21. Zach Parise
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Zach Parise has had an impressive young career. He shined before reaching the professional level, standing out at the famed hockey school Shattuck-St. Mary’s in Minnesota and then during two seasons at the University of North Dakota. He has shined on the Devils since joining them in the 2005-06 season, and is currently an alternate captain. He has shined for the United States internationally as well: helping to win gold at the 2004 World Junior Championships and silver as alternate captain at the 2010 Olympics, even scoring the game-tying goal, forcing the game into overtime.
Off the ice Parise is just as impressive. Parise is one of the New Jersey Library Champions, a program that encourages young students to read. Parise was the first Champion to visit a state library to read to young kids. His leadership on and off the ice, and appreciation for working the mind as well as the body are what makes him a successful hockey player now and will make him a great coach in the future.
20. Mike Richards
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Mike Richards has faced a lot of criticism during his career. First, when drafted onto his junior team, he was criticized for being too small. As he's grown, he's become a better player. He has a Memorial Cup, World Juniors gold medal and an Olympic gold medal under his belt. Yet, the criticism remains. It hit a high note early in the 2009 season when Richards faced criticism of his captaincy. Claims were made that he was not a good leader because he partied too much and that he should be stripped of his title.
While Richards certainly has not been perfect in his position, he’s hardly a poor leader. He matured a lot last season following that criticism. Some attribute it to Chris Pronger’s presence in the locker room and some to his position on the gold-winning Canadian Olympic team. Whatever it was, Richards became a different person for his team in the playoffs. He’s a good leader because he can relate to both the veterans in the room and the young guys—a good trait in a coach. Richards really impressed me with how he carried himself during the 2010 Olympics and then afterwards during the Flyers' playoff push. This year, Richards has stepped out of his shell a bit more. He's speaking to the media more and (for the most part) acting like a captain should. With the majority of his career still ahead of him, Richards will mature further and will eventually make a good coach.
19. Mike Knuble
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Knuble was drafted in 1991 by Detroit but went to the University of Michigan for four years before turning pro. Knuble spent his first couple seasons in the minors, with a few call-ups to the Wings. He played on the 1996-97 Stanley Cup winning team, but not enough to get his name on the Cup. He did, however, get his name on the Cup when the team repeated the next season.
Over his 15-year career, Knuble has amassed a wealth of experience playing for the Detroit Red Wings, New York Rangers, Boston Bruins, Philadelphia Flyers and Washington Capitals. Although he has never worn a “C” in the NHL, instead preferring to maintain a low profile, his experience and leadership allow him to speak up when necessary. After all, it was Knuble who stood up and spoke to his team, the Capitals, in the dressing room during their recent losing streak, as we saw on HBO's Penguins/Capitals 24/7. They didn’t win that game, but they won the next one. Mike Knuble is one of the most effective leaders. He knows how to be a leader without the official title. Knuble will make a great coach when he hangs up his skates.
18. Rick Nash
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Rick Nash is still a young player with plenty left to learn, but he’s a natural leader. He was drafted first overall by the young Columbus Blue Jackets club in 2002. He didn’t need any time in the minors—he joined the team immediately for the 2002-03 season. He had an impressive rookie campaign and was nominated for the Calder Trophy. There was no sophomore slump for Nash, as in his sophomore season he tied Jarome Iginla and Ilya Kovalchuk for the Rocket Richard Trophy for most goals. He’s been a high point producer despite playing on the Columbus Blue Jackets, who aren’t exactly known for being good producers.
In 2008, Nash was made captain. In his inaugural season as captain, Nash helped lead his team to their first playoff appearance, sealed during a March 2009 game against the Red Wings (who the team would lose to in the playoffs) in which Nash scored three unassisted goals for the hat trick. The last player before Nash to accomplish this was Maurice “Rocket” Richard himself. In addition to his success in the NHL, Nash has had success representing his country, winning Olympic gold with Canada in 2010 and gold in the 2007 World Championships. Perhaps one day Nash will join the Triple Gold Club.
While some players of his caliber would jump at the chance to play for a better team than Columbus, in true leadership, Nash showed his commitment to the team by signing an 8-year deal effective beginning this season. Off the ice, Nash is a leader in his community as well, winning the 2009 NHL Foundation Player Award for his charitable endeavors. With more maturity and experience, Nash will make a great coach one day.
17. Nik Antropov
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Nik Antropov may be an intriguing choice to some. But I feel that Antropov has a lot to offer young players. In fact, I believe he should have been selected as captain of the Atlanta Thrashers after Kovalchuk was traded. After all, Antropov captained the Kazakhstan national team in the 1999 World Junior Championships and the 2006 Olympics; but who knows what happens behind closed doors, so that’s another story.
In Toronto, Antropov was one of the players who stepped up into the leadership role vacated with Mats Sundin’s absence. He (and Alexei Ponikarovsky) helped bridge the language gap between the team and Mikhail Grabovski and Nikolai Kulemin. After being traded to New York for the remainder of the 2008-09 season, Antropov signed with the Thrashers in the summer 2009. His first year in Atlanta, there were quite a few veteran Russians on the team: Kovalchuk, Slava Kozlov, and Max Afinogenov to name a few. This year, Antropov is the only veteran Russian left to help the young Alexander Burmistrov with his transition to the United States. Having played in Russia, Canada, and the United States, Antropov has a unique perspective to offer players. Fighting nagging injuries this year, Antropov has had to lead from the sidelines, good practice if he decides to pursue a future career in coaching.
16. Patrik Elias
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There’s a lot of great leaders currently in New Jersey and alternate captain Patrik Elias is one of them. Known for his skill on the ice, Elias holds a few of the Devils’ records: all-time leading scorer, most points in a season, and most game winning goals. And he is tied for most career overtime goals in the NHL with Mats Sundin, Sergei Fedorov and Jaromir Jagr. That’s some pretty good company to keep.
During the NHL lockout, Elias played the season in Russia, but contracted the Hepatitis A disease from food there and his recovery took a long time. Finally back for the Devils following the lockout in 2005-06, Elias came back where he left off. In 2006, he was named captain but the title was taken from him by the new head coach Brent Sutter in 2007. Sutter gave it to current captain Jamie Langenbrunner, and Elias remains one alternate. Elias has always been listed as one of the top players from Czech Republic and in 2009 he took over the No. 1 spot, winning the Golden Hockey Stick (the best Czech player in the world) over Jagr, who had won the previous four years. Elias has also been named the captain of the Czech national team. His skills and leadership on the ice will translate into a great coach one day.
15. Ryan Malone
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Malone followed in his father’s footsteps, playing for the same team as the city he grew up in (Pittsburgh) and now playing for the Lightning, where his father works as a scout. Malone could continue to follow in his father’s footsteps when he retires, but I think he would be well-suited for coaching. Malone is such a likeable guy. He’s been underappreciated on the ice, probably due to being overshadowed by other members of the Pittsburgh Penguins and now the Tampa Bay Lightning. His lines are always effective, partially to Malone’s credit. He’s hardworking, always chipping away at the puck, even if it doesn’t always go in.
In 2010, Malone was named to the Team USA Olympic roster. There are a couple stories about Malone that I think show the type of person he is. First, for his entire career Malone has been number 12. When Simon Gagne was traded to Tampa Bay (also long-time wearer of 12), Malone gave up the number for Gagne, despite Malone actually being older than Gagne, so there wasn't that pressure on him to make the move. The other story: Malone invited everyone on the Tampa Bay Lightning who didn't have Thanksgiving meal plans (since most are Canadian or European) over to his house so they would be surrounded by adopted family. Due to his skills, heart, and tenacity (not to mention family ties), Malone surely has a future in another position in hockey after his playing days are over.
14. Jaime Langenbrunner
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Jaime Langenbrunner may be overlooked at times, but he’s been selected to captain the New Jersey Devils and captained the 2010 Team USA Olympic hockey team that took home silver in Vancouver, so clearly he’s respected in his leadership abilities. He’s a leader on and off the ice. He was a contender for the Calder Memorial Trophy (Rookie of the Year) following the 1996-97 season and was a big part of each of his two Stanley Cup wins with the Dallas Stars and New Jersey Devils respectively.
When Langenbrunner was eligible for free agency following the 2005-06 season, he didn’t need to shop around. He knew his place was in New Jersey and didn’t entertain any other offers before signing a 5-year contract. His veteran presence on the line has been beneficial in the development of teammates and linemates Zach Parise (also a Team USA Olympic teammate) and Travis Zajac and contributes to the success of that line. Off the ice, Langenbrunner is committed to connecting with and serving his community. He has a website, Facebook fan page and Twitter page to give fans the chance to connect with him and serves his community through charitable work with Operation Homefront and Hockey in Newark. Langenbrunner is a quiet leader, but effective nonetheless.
13. Danny Briere
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Danny Briere is probably an underrated veteran presence on the Philadelphia Flyers. There’s captain Mike Richards and then the outspoken alternate Chris Pronger but in the locker room, Briere is sometimes forced to speak up. Whenever asked about leadership (accompanied usually by a mention of Chris Pronger), Richards always gives some credit to Briere for his experience. A mostly soft-spoken guy, except for the occasional outburst on the ice, Briere is effective in what he does. For his talents, Briere has been named to Team Canada numerous times in his career: winning gold with them in the 1993 World U18 tournament, the 1997 World Juniors, and 2003 and 2004 World Championships.
During his time in Buffalo, Briere was bestowed the honor of team captain. When he became a free agent in 2006, there was speculation that the French Canadian would return to his roots and sign with the Montreal Canadiens. That would have been the easy decision if Briere were a high profile guy looking for a lot of attention. Instead, Briere chose the Philadelphia Flyers, who had the worst record in the league the previous season. Since arriving in Philadelphia, Briere has had an impact as one of the original members of the team during the rebuilding process and was a vital part of the Flyers pulling together last season. Briere will make a great coach one day.
12. Brenden Morrow
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Morrow has played for his native land, Canada, internationally; first at the 1999 World Junior Championships, winning silver in the tournament, four times at the IIHF World Championships, winning gold and silver in 2004 and 2005 respectively, and at the 2010 Olympic Games, winning gold. Morrow has spent all of his career on the Dallas Stars and has shown his commitment to the team. During the playoffs in 2000, Morrow fractured his ankle but only missed a couple games before playing through it because, to paraphrase him, everybody in the locker room was hurting from one thing or another, so why shouldn’t he play?
In 2006 when eligible to become a free agent, Morrow didn’t even consider any other teams, instead signing a 6-year deal with the team. In honor of his commitment, the Stars decided Morrow should be rewarded by being named captain (and Mike Modano graciously abdicated the role to make room for Morrow). Also, they felt it was time for younger members of the team to step up since veteran presences, like Modano, were starting to get up there in age, and Morrow should be the one leading them. The consensus on the team at the time was that Morrow was ready to be the captain because he was already their leader, and I’m sure no one has regretted that decision since. One of the reasons Morrow is the leader he is today is due to the leadership he had in his coach in the Western Hockey League. His coach told him that being a successful hockey player is more than talent—it’s about working hard, being healthy, and “being strong in the body and the mind.” Those words stuck with Morrow and will help him to coach a generation of future hockey players.
11. Chris Pronger
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Chris Pronger doesn’t have the best reputation. Honestly, he’s kind of a jerk sometimes. But it’s obvious he knows his stuff. He has been very successful for 17 seasons in the NHL, playing in three Stanley Cup finals and winning the Cup once with Anaheim. He’s arguably the best defenseman in the NHL; he was the first since Bobby Orr in 1972 to win the Hart Trophy as league’s most valuable player (for the 1999-2000 season). Also a member of the Triple Gold Club, he has two Olympic gold medals with Team Canada, at Salt Lake City 2002 and Vancouver 2010. And at 36 years old, he plays better than a lot of players half his age.
He knows what it takes to be successful in the league and remain successful for long periods of time. He also knows what it takes to play 25-30 plus minutes of ice time a game. Plus, he's never afraid to speak his mind if he feels like somebody isn't producing the way he should be. However, his teammates insist there's a soft side to him that he doesn't let people see. He would be a good coach just from the experience and acumen on the ice. He just may want to work on his people skills a little bit. Or maybe not…see John Tortorella.
10. Ray Whitney
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True hockey fans recognize the significance Ray Whitney has had on the game and his teams. He has been a consistent high-point producer on his teams and in his first season with the Carolina Hurricanes helped the franchise win their first Stanley Cup. In summer 2010, Whitney signed a two year contract with the Phoenix Coyotes. Some players may have overlooked the Coyotes, but other teams overlooked Whitney. Whitney said that Phoenix was the only team to offer him the second year so he rewarded them for their loyalty.
Internationally, Whitney has been on Team Canada’s roster for four IIHF World Championships, most recently captaining the 2010 squad after Ryan Smyth was injured in a practice.
Whitney doesn’t need the “C” to be leader, though. He’s been an effective behind-the-scenes leader for all of his teams. He makes quite the impression on his young teammates on any teams. He will make a great coach one day as well.
9. Shane Doan
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Ask any of his teammates about Shane Doan, and you’ll get the sense that everyone has the utmost respect for the team’s captain. For good reason too. Doan is a great leader. Doan has been part of the Coyotes system since 1996. He’s put in a lot of years with an abysmal team. Yet, his experience helped mold him into a motivational leader. It’s easy to be a leader on a winning team, but harder to be a leader for a losing team. Doan is all about the team. Doan recently had back-to-back two goal games. He’s had 37 two-goal games in his career. But he’s never had a hat trick. He was interviewed about it and only talked about the team…to paraphrase Doan: Yeah it’d be nice to get a hat trick but as long as the team is winning. That kind of mentality is why Doan is the captain and why his teammates respect him.
Shane Doan’s leadership traits were clinched for me when I saw him accept the King Clancy Memorial Trophy at the 2010 NHL Awards. The King Clancy is given to the “NHL player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice, and has made a significant humanitarian contribution to his community.” Doan was chosen for his leadership in guiding the team and the community through the unknowns following the franchise’s buyout by the NHL. In his acceptance speech, Doan placed all the credit on everyone else. He thanked Coach Dave Tippett and goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov, saying that without them and the success of the team, he wouldn’t have won the award. And always thinking of the team, Doan ended with “Anyone that’s a free agent, you guys want to come to Phoenix, we’re going to be there for another year.” Nicely done.
8. Jarome Iginla
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Jarome Iginla is another on this list with an impressive resume. He holds Calgary Flames records for most goals, points, and games played. He was named captain of the team in the 2003-04 season, making him the first black captain in NHL history. He has assisted Canada in two Olympic Gold medal wins (becoming the first black male to win an Olympic gold medal), most recently when he set up Sidney Crosby for the game-winning and gold-medal clinching goal in overtime. He’s respected by his peers, earning the formerly titled Lester B. Pearson trophy, the league’s best player as voted by the players. And he won the NHL Foundation Player Award and King Clancy Memorial trophy after the 2003-04 season for his even-tempered disposition and his charitable endeavors.
Iginla donates $2,000 to charity for every goal he scores ($1,000 from 2000-05 before raising it to $2,000), runs his own hockey school in Calgary, donating the proceeds to Diabetes Research Association and works with the NHL Diversity program, which helps underprivileged kids be able to play hockey. There are even more impressive stories about Iginla’s heart from things he did off the ice. One instance, at the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City, Iginla met and spoke with four Canadians from Calgary who were in town for the Olympics. they couldn’t afford a hotel room and were sleeping in their car. Iginla immediately booked them a room and paid for it out his pocket. Iginla really is one-of-a-kind. With his talent on the ice and demeanor, he’ll make a great coach, remaining even-tempered and patient with the members of his team.
7. Pavel Datsyuk
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Datsyuk is well known for being a talented stick-handler and two-way forward. But he is also known for his sense of humor and gentlemanly demeanor. Datsyuk took home four consecutive Lady Byng Trophies from 2006-2010 for his on-ice gentlemanly conduct. When Datsyuk arrived in Detroit, he had role models like Steve Yzerman and Russians Igor Larionov and Sergei Fedorov to aid his development.
Datsyuk was named an assistant captain for the Red Wings in 2007. He had been offered the “A” in 2006 but had declined saying his English wasn’t good enough for him to be an effective leader. A lot of players would have just taken the “A,” thinking it was more symbolic than anything else. But Datsyuk recognized the responsibility that came with it and turned it down when he didn’t feel like he could fulfill the obligation.
His coach Mike Babcock decided a year later that his English was good enough and that he needed to be recognized for his leadership on the team. I think Datsyuk’s teammates and the rest of Hockeytown would concur with that decision. Due to his nationality, skills and demeanor, Datsyuk could do wonders in player development for Russian players, as well as others.
6. Nicklas Lidstrom
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On the ice, you can’t get a much better leader than Nicklas Lidstrom. Over the span of 18 seasons, the defenseman has accumulated four Stanley Cup championships, six Norris Trophies (best NHL defenseman) and was voted to 10 All-Star Games. And he’s not done yet. When representing his homeland, Sweden, in the 2006 Olympic Games, Lidstrom clinched Sweden’s win over Finland with the winning goal. He is a member of the Triple Gold Club, the term dubbed to players who have won an Olympic gold medal, an IIHF World Championship gold medal, and the Stanley Cup in the NHL.
Lidstrom was the natural selection to replace the retired Steve Yzerman as the captain of the Red Wings, a role he has served since 2006. Lidstrom is another player committed to his team. He has played his entire career in Detroit and has shown no signs of seeking a richer deal elsewhere. His impressive accomplishments and loyalty will make Lidstrom a great coach one day.
5. Mike Modano
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Another all-around great guy. You expect the great players to come from Canada and in the past couple decades Russia, the other former Soviet republics, and Scandinavian countries. Modano is known as the greatest American player and he gave aspiring American hockey players a national idol to look up to. He’s a great player, teammate, leader, and role model. He was beloved in Minnesota when they were the North Stars and was beloved in Dallas as the Stars.
The feeling was obviously mutual. Modano embraced the opportunity to grow the hockey fan base with the Stars' relocation to Dallas. From his love for the game, he wanted to share the sport he loves with others who might not have gotten to experience it. He has always been a classy guy. The biggest example was in 2006. From 1995-2003, Modano had the honor of wearing the “A” on his jersey, as assistant captain. In 2003, Modano was named captain, after his predecessor left in free agency. In 2006, the Stars signed Brendan Morrow to a contract extension and decided it was time for him to become captain. So the Stars decided to ask Modano to give back the “C” to give to Morrow, instead of waiting for Modano (who at the time was playing his 18th season) to retire or leave the Stars.
Modano stayed classy though, and said he understood the decision and would support Morrow in the role. A classy guy like Modano, with his skill level and 22 and counting years of professional experience would make a coach that players would yearn to play under.
4. Ryan Smyth
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Ryan Smyth is another undervalued player. In the league since 1994, Smyth has had 10 20-goal seasons so far in his career and reached his 700th NHL point last March. Previously playing in Edmonton for 13 years, then the New York Islanders and Colorado Avalanche, Smyth was traded to Los Angeles. His veteran presence helped the team advance to the playoffs for the first time since the 2001-02 season. In November, Smyth reached another milestone: playing in his 1000th career game.
Smyth also holds records while playing internationally. He holds the record for most games played as part of Team Canada. He captained Team Canada at the IIHF World Championships from 2001-2005, winning two gold medals and a silver in that time frame. His long-tenured captaincy earned him the nickname Captain Canada. He was again named captain for the 2010 World Championship team before becoming injured in practice. He also was part of Team Canada’s 2002 and 2006 Olympic teams, winning a gold medal as part of the 2002 squad.
While Smyth does not top the lists of most talented players, he is an effective player and talented enough to have represented his country so much in international play. His lengthy experience in so many different teams and situations gives him the credentials to become a great coach when his career is through.
3. Martin St. Louis
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Marty St. Louis is a prime example of leadership, drive and dedication. St. Louis is a smaller hockey player—standing at only 5’8”. He went undrafted because teams doubted his abilities. But St. Louis didn’t give up just because he wasn’t the right size. He persevered and found his way into the league. His story is inspiring for any young athlete. It helps him get the best out of linemates like Steven Stamkos and Steve Downie.
It’s no secret that St. Louis’ presence on that young line is what helps make it so successful. Even now at 35 years old, St. Louis still works just as hard and reaps the results. St. Louis even helped in the development of Lightning captain Vinny Lecavalier. St. Louis is also known for his on-ice conduct. He was nominated for the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy, awarded to the player who exhibits the best sportsmanship and most gentlemanly conduct on the ice, for the fourth consecutive year in 2010 and finally won the award. His conduct and experience will make for a great coach.
2. Sidney Crosby
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I know this choice will garner a lot of criticism. Critics of Crosby argue that he’s too much of a whiner to be a coach. I would argue that yes, while he does get emotional and is often talking to the referees, his amount of whining seems to go down each year as he matures. By the time he retires in probably 15-20 years, he will probably have matured quite a bit more. Crosby has always been well-spoken in his handling of the media: speaks highly of teammates and coaches, meaning he would be able to do the same when coaching his team. Plus, he makes everyone on his team better on the ice. And it’s not just due to his play on the ice. You can always see Crosby on the bench talking to his linemates, obviously pointing out weak areas in the opponents’ defense.
Additionally, Crosby is known for his work ethic. He may not be the most skilled player, but he has found a way to make himself competitive against the most skilled players, through dedication and perseverance. He hones in on the weaknesses in his game and works to eliminate them. That would be a great trait in a head coach. Also, in the third episode of Penguins/Capitals 24/7, during the shootout in the game against Washington, Crosby is closely monitoring opposing goaltender Michal Neuvirth’s play and noting his deficiencies for the other shooters.
Even Dan Bylsma seemed impressed by Crosby’s analysis. Finally, Crosby even got a little taste of coaching when he ventured behind the bench to help his former midget coach Paul Mason, when Mason’s Cole Harbour team came to Pittsburgh to participate in the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite Winter Classic Tournament. All of this adds up to a great future coach.
1. Brooks Laich
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Brooks Laich may not be a household name but he is one current player that would make an excellent coach. He has an extensive understanding of the game, as evidenced by his play and how he talks about the game off the ice. Mostly though, he’s just an all-around good guy. He puts his teammates first, as shown by his goal celebration (smile) vs. his celebration when a linemate or teammate scores (pure elation).
For Laich, the team is always first. Hard work is his motto. Awhile back, I read an interview from Bruce Boudreau about Laich. Boudreau said that Laich never misses an opportunity to practice. He’s at every involuntary practice and he sometimes has to be physically prevented from getting on the ice, in order to rest his body a bit. Laich never has a bad thing to say about a teammate or coach and is the first to defend him. But behind closed doors, I’m certain he has a different personality. He hates to lose and will say what needs to be said. But he’ll never throw a teammate under the bus to the media. In fact, his frustration is obvious whenever a reporter puts down any of his teammates or his coaches. That loyalty and hard work will translate into a great coach one day.
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