Tocchet finished his time coaching the Lightning at a not terrible 53-69-26. The more important part is that he helped to develop the future face of the team, Steven Stamkos, into a 50+ goal scorer in his second season.
So with Tocchet out, the race is on to see who will be the Lightning's next
Ted Nolan
Pros: This former Jack Adams winner managed to get the Islanders to play above .500 hockey in 2006-07. Which means he's had success with a bad team post lockout. And puts him one step ahead of Barry Melrose.
Cons: He might be confused with the large population of Cubans in Florida and accidentally deported.
Patrick Roy
Pros: If it's former players you're looking for, Patrick Roy was one of the best. Even though he told the Avalanche 'No' last season, he kept the idea alive by suggesting he'd like to be a NHL coach someday.
Cons: Let's be honest...We'll all be disappointed if he doesn't put on some skates and try to fight Mike Vernon. Also, he's inexperienced.
Michel Therrien
Pros: Coached the Penguins, so the Lightning will be interested. Has coached in the Playoffs. Took the Penguins to the Playoffs in 2 of 3 seasons coaching them
Cons: Has a tendency to get fired. Name calling may demoralize defensive corps.
Mike Milbury
Pros: Another TV personality. Well known name, will likely bring additional NBC broadcasts. Has coached the Bruins
Cons: Has coached the Islanders. Seems to actually get worse as he coaches more.
Pierre McGuire
Pros: As with Milbury, he will bring extra national television exposure. Strong willed, won't let the players take advantage of him (unless he wants them to)
Cons: Only NHL team he coached no longer exists (Hartford)
Gordon Bombay
Pros: Turned a rag-tag band of American kids into efficient team of hockey players. Good at helping players develop their skills. Sympathetic to the plight of the team, as he has blown it in a big game before.
Cons: No one has heard from him in years
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