NHL Rumors: Claude Julien an option for the Florida Panthers?
While Claude Julien isn’t an option for the Florida Panthers right now, he could emerge as one down the road.
The firing of former Boston Bruins head coach Claude Julien could impact the league. Many teams would love to get him. Teams are already getting in touch with the Bruins to ask for permission to talk to him. One of those teams isn’t the Florida Panthers, according to George Richards of the Miami Herald.
"[Panthers head coach] Tom Rowe made it clear Thursday he intends to remain behind the Florida bench at least for the foreseeable future.A Panthers source said Thursday they planned on asking for that permission but not until the season was over."
This makes a bit of sense. Sure, Julien is a better coach than Rowe. His resume is one of the best in the NHL and he has a track record of success. However, the Panthers are getting healthy and doing a solid job under Rowe. And it’s not like Rowe’s a bum, either. Even before he replaced Gerrard Gallant, he has a wealth of experience coaching in various leagues.
With how their season started, the last thing the Panthers need is more drama. For better or for worse, Rowe’s going to be behind the bench at least through this season. The Panthers can evaluate where they’re at after this season and potentially pursue Julien at that point.
Entering Thursday Feb. 9, Florida has won three straight games, getting at least a point in seven of their last 10 games. With the Bruins firing Julien, they might be out of the playoff picture. At the very least, the Panthers are in a position to make up a lot of ground quickly. They will, however, have to compete with the Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Islanders, among other teams, for a playoff spot.