The Dallas Stars have officially parted ways with Pete DeBoer after three seasons and three consecutive trips to the Western Conference Final, citing a need for a “new voice” to push the team closer to a Stanley Cup.
With the search for a new head coach beginning immediately, several candidates — both internal and external — stand out as possible targets.
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Potential candidates for the Dallas Stars next head coach vacancy
Internal candidates
Neil Graham (Texas Stars, AHL)
Graham has led the Stars’ AHL affiliate to multiple playoff appearances and division titles, earning respect for his player development and tactical acumen. His familiarity with the organization and success with young talent make him a logical candidate for promotion.
External candidates
Rikard Gronborg
A highly respected coach in Europe, Gronborg has won championships in Sweden and Finland and is known for his ability to adapt to North American hockey. He’s been mentioned in recent NHL coaching searches and could bring a fresh, international perspective to Dallas.
Alain Nasreddine
Currently an assistant with the Stars, Nasreddine has NHL head coaching experience (as interim with New Jersey) and has overseen Dallas’ defense and penalty kill. His leadership qualities and rapport with players could make him a strong in-house option.
Travis Morin (Texas Stars, AHL Assistant)
Morin, a franchise legend in Texas, has transitioned to coaching and could be considered for an assistant or even head role, though he is less experienced than Graham.
Less likely or unavailable options
Rick Tocchet
Previously rumored as a top candidate for Dallas, Tocchet was recently hired as the head coach of the Philadelphia Flyers and is not available.
David Quinn
Quinn, once considered a fit due to his NHL and collegiate experience (including coaching Jake Oettinger at Boston University), has just joined the New York Rangers as an assistant coach after stints with the Rangers, Sharks and Team USA. He is not currently available for a head coaching position.
Other notable names
Jere Lehtinen
A Stars legend and successful coach with Finland’s national team, Lehtinen has no NHL head coaching experience but is deeply familiar with the organization and its Finnish core. He would be an unconventional, yet intriguing, wild-card candidate.
The most realistic options for the Dallas Stars’ next head coach include internal promotion (Neil Graham or Alain Nasreddine), an international hire (Rikard Gronborg), or a bold move with a franchise legend (Jere Lehtinen). External NHL veterans like Rick Tocchet and David Quinn are not currently available.
The decision will likely hinge on whether the Stars prioritize continuity and player development, international innovation, or a deep connection to the franchise’s identity.
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