Bruins after dark

The NHL’s offseason rumor mill is heating up as coaching speculation ramps up, and veteran bench bosses like John Tortorella, Joel Quenneville, and Bruce Boudreau are being floated as potential replacements for Bruins Joe Sacco, according to senior NHL.com writer Dan Rosen.

Dan Rosen recently stirred the pot with an intriguing list of candidates that could step into any looming coaching vacancies, including the one currently shadowing Joe Sacco’s status.

Here are some names to consider, but these are names for any potential opening.

In his report, Rosen pointed to a mix of high-profile and recently active coaches currently available on the market: John Tortorella, Joel Quenneville, Jay Woodcroft, Derek Lalonde, Bruce Boudreau, Gerard Gallant, and Dave Tippett.

While these names carry weight, Rosen was quick to highlight the uncertainty surrounding their futures.

Some may not even be seeking a return this season, despite their resumes and availability.

It’s certainly possible not all the names listed above will get jobs.

It’s not even clear if all of them want another job for next season.

This sentiment taps into the complex dynamics of NHL coaching turnover.

For some, it’s about timing and opportunity.

As the playoffs unfold and non-contending teams begin reshaping their futures, coaching shifts are all but guaranteed.

While Rosen’s list was broad and not necessarily targeted at one position, the inclusion of these names signals the market is open and teams like the one currently considering Sacco’s status are likely keeping close tabs.