AHL Coaches Elevate to NHL Leadership in Record Numbers
The 2025‑26 season marks a milestone as 21 NHL clubs appoint former AHL head coaches to head‑coaching or senior assistant roles, underscoring the league’s deep talent pipeline.
Jul 28, 2026
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Stu Bickel
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Stu Bickel across Hockey.
Scott Ford Joins Firebirds Coaching Staff, Bringing Experience and Vision
Former Milwaukee Admirals captain Scott Ford, a 46‑year‑old veteran of North American pro hockey, has been appointed assistant coach of the AHL Coachella Valley Firebirds, where he will blend playing wisdom with a focus on communication and individualized development.
Jul 25, 2026
John Tortorella Looks Ahead After Stanley Cup Final Exit
After a sudden dismissal by the Vegas Golden Knights, John Tortorella contemplates his future in coaching, the lessons from a near‑miss Stanley Cup run, and the possibilities that lie beyond the ice.
Jul 24, 2026
Firebirds Re‑Sign Stephens, Bickel Moves On
The Coachella Valley Firebirds announced the re‑signing of Mitchell Stephens to a two‑year deal through the 2027‑28 season, while longtime assistant coach Stu Bickel will head the Iowa Wild.
Jul 8, 2026
Kraken Lock In Roed, Avon and Shift Coaching Landscape
Seattle Kraken have re‑signed forwards Lleyton Roed and J.R. Avon to two‑way contracts for the 2026‑27 season, while assistant coach Stu Bickel departs the Coachella Valley Firebirds to lead the Iowa Wild. Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers’ trade of Mackie Samoskevich creates a chain reaction across the league.
Jul 1, 2026
Wild Skip Qualifying Bobby Brink, Iowa Wild Taps Stu Bickel as Head Coach
The Minnesota Wild decided not to extend a qualifying offer to forward Bobby Brink, making him an unrestricted free agent, while the Iowa Wild appointed former player Stu Bickel as their new head coach.
Jun 30, 2026
Stu Bickel Named Head Coach of the Iowa Wild
The Iowa Wild announced the hiring of Stu Bickel, a Minnesota native with extensive AHL and NHL experience, as its new head coach, bringing a proven track record of playoff success and player development.
Jun 29, 2026
Stu Bickel Takes the Helm of Iowa Wild
The Iowa Wild announced the hiring of Stu Bickel as head coach, highlighting his extensive playing and coaching background and his deep ties to Minnesota and Iowa.
Jun 29, 2026