This years’ NHLPA player poll indicated that D.J. Smith, assistant coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs received the most votes for a current assistant coach likely to be a head coach.
A few weeks after Mike Babcock was hired, Smith was hired by the Toronto Maple Leafs in June of 2015. Prior to becoming a coach, Smith played in the NHL as a defenseman for both the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Colorado Avalanche.
After his playing career, he coached the Ontario Hockey League’s Oshawa Generals. In 2015, Smith helped lead the Generals to their first Memorial Cup since 1990. In his time with Oshawa, he coached a number of NHL players and prospects including Michael Dal Colle of the New York Islanders, Tobias Lindberg of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Michael McCarron of the Montreal Canadiens.
Since being hired by Toronto, Smith has focused most of his effort in moulding together a strong defensive core. Smith’s leadership has been pivotal in the Leafs success throughout this season.
With Smith’s help, he’s been able to mentor the young Toronto Maple Leafs defensemen like Travis Dermott and help mold them into assets for the team down the stretch.
Where Smith Could Go?
If Brendan Shanahan lets Smith talk to NHL teams, he could very likely pack his bags in the off-season and find a new place to call home. In all likelihood, Smith will have plenty of options to choose from. This season, there have been plenty of teams that have struggled with defense. Smith might be able to help several clubs strengthen their defense and come back in the 2018-2019 with a much stronger defensive core.
Personally, I believe that if Smith leaves the Maple Leafs that he’ll end up with the New York Rangers.
New York Rangers
The Rangers have had an abysmal season and unfortunately long-time head coach, Alain Vigneault has most likely seen his last days in Manhattan. The Rangers will be entering a rebuilding mode and should look for a defensive-minded coach.
This season, the Rangers have allowed a 3.13 GA/GP. That’s terrible. New York has one of the best goaltenders in the NHL in Henrik Lundqvist. Yet, Jeff Gorton, the general manager of the Rangers fails to provide King Henrik with solid defense.
Smith could do very well in New York.
The Rangers have stockpiled pick after pick in the upcoming entry-level draft. They might have a legitimate shot at landing top prospect, Rasmus Dahlin. Even if the lottery doesn’t play in their favor, they have a shot of netting some highly-touted prospects.
If the Rangers do well in the draft and in free agency, Smith could help lead the team back to the playoffs. Additionally, he could help bring the Rangers back to the Stanley Cup Finals.
stats from NHL.com
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