“McDavid won’t make a good coach either”: Legendary HC Don Cherry delivers brutally honest take on superstar Connor McDavid’s potential as a head coach in the NHL

Don Cherry, the legendary Canadian hockey coach, broadcaster, and commentator, has never been one to mince words. Known for his bold opinions and no-nonsense approach to the game, Cherry has provided invaluable insight over his decades-long career. His most recent comments, however, have turned heads and sparked heated debate within the hockey community. In a candid interview, Cherry offered a brutally honest take on the future of Connor McDavid, the NHL’s premier superstar, suggesting that McDavid would not make a good head coach in the league.

Cherry’s remarks regarding McDavid’s potential as a coach have ignited discussions not only about McDavid’s leadership style but also about the qualities required to be an effective NHL coach. In this article, we will delve into Cherry’s comments, dissect McDavid’s leadership style, explore what makes a great coach in the NHL, and discuss how McDavid’s legacy as a player might impact his potential future in coaching.

Don Cherry: A Legacy of Unfiltered Opinion

Before analyzing his comments about McDavid, it’s important to understand who Don Cherry is and why his opinions carry such weight in the hockey world. Cherry’s career began in the 1970s, where he gained recognition as both a player and coach in the NHL. His time behind the bench included a successful stint as the head coach of the Boston Bruins from 1974 to 1979. Cherry made his mark as a coach not just with his strategic insights but with his fiery personality and penchant for motivating players through tough love and his unapologetic style.

After his coaching days, Cherry transitioned into a long-running career as a hockey commentator, most famously on the television show Hockey Night in Canada. Known for his colorful commentary and signature suits, Cherry became a beloved figure in Canadian hockey culture and beyond. His unfiltered takes and willingness to voice controversial opinions have kept him in the spotlight, making his views on any player or team important for hockey fans and analysts alike.

Despite his success and influence in the sport, Cherry is also known for his occasional polarizing views. His blunt commentary has drawn criticism at times, especially when his takes deviate from the conventional wisdom of the day. This latest opinion about McDavid and his potential future as a coach is another example of Cherry’s tendency to challenge the norm.

Connor McDavid: A Star On and Off the Ice

Connor McDavid is widely considered the most talented and skilled player in the NHL today. Since his debut in 2015, the Edmonton Oilers captain has dazzled fans and analysts alike with his remarkable speed, vision, and offensive prowess. McDavid’s ability to control the puck, make plays at top speed, and produce consistently at an elite level has solidified his place among the greats of the game. His list of accolades includes multiple Hart Memorial Trophies as the NHL’s Most Valuable Player, numerous scoring titles, and an ongoing legacy as a generational talent.

As a leader, McDavid has faced expectations that extend beyond his on-ice performance. With the Oilers struggling at times to capitalize on his brilliance and build a competitive team around him, McDavid’s leadership skills have been scrutinized as a key element in his team’s success or failure. While McDavid is widely respected as a dedicated and passionate player, there have been some questions about his leadership style, particularly when it comes to inspiring his teammates and handling adversity in high-pressure situations.

Off the ice, McDavid is known for his quiet demeanor, professionalism, and strong work ethic. He keeps a low profile compared to many of his peers, maintaining a focus on the game rather than the spotlight. But despite his reserved nature, McDavid’s leadership has shone through in moments when the team needed him the most. As a captain of the Oilers, McDavid has been tasked with not only being a top player but also a key figure in motivating and uniting his team.

Cherry’s Comments: Why McDavid Won’t Make a Good Coach

In a recent interview, Don Cherry made headlines when he was asked about the potential for McDavid to transition into a head coaching role once his playing days are over. Cherry didn’t hold back, stating, “McDavid won’t make a good coach either.” His reasoning behind this statement was rooted in his belief that McDavid’s personality and approach to the game might not translate well into the leadership demands of an NHL head coach.

Cherry explained that one of the key qualities needed to be a successful coach is the ability to connect with players on a personal level. According to Cherry, a coach must be able to “read” the room, communicate effectively with players, and get the best out of everyone on the roster, even those who may not possess the same talent as the superstar player. Cherry argued that McDavid’s style of leadership—focused on his own individual excellence—might not provide the same inspiration or drive to players who aren’t on the same level.

Cherry also questioned McDavid’s ability to manage the diverse personalities and egos that come with being an NHL head coach. In the NHL, coaching goes beyond X’s and O’s—it involves a psychological element, managing player relationships, and ensuring the team functions cohesively despite the pressure and expectations. McDavid’s reserved and humble personality, Cherry suggested, might struggle in this area.

Moreover, Cherry alluded to McDavid’s relatively young age and the fact that he is still in the prime of his playing career. Many of the NHL’s most successful coaches have decades of experience both as players and in coaching roles, which gives them the necessary insights into what it takes to succeed behind the bench. McDavid, while incredibly accomplished, has not yet had the opportunity to gain that type of experience, and Cherry suggested that without it, he may not possess the necessary tools to transition into a coaching role.

What Makes a Great NHL Coach?

To evaluate whether Cherry’s comments are justified, it’s important to consider what qualities are necessary for success as an NHL head coach. Coaching in the NHL is a multifaceted and challenging job. While having a deep understanding of the game and strategic knowledge is essential, there are several other factors that contribute to a coach’s ability to succeed at the highest level.

1. Leadership and Communication Skills

A great coach must possess exceptional leadership abilities. This includes being able to motivate players, keep them focused during the long and grueling season, and foster an environment of teamwork and trust. Strong communication skills are also essential for coaches, as they need to relay complex strategies to players and resolve conflicts effectively. The ability to connect with players, whether they are superstars or role players, is often the difference between a good coach and a great one.

2. Emotional Intelligence

Being able to understand and manage emotions, both one’s own and those of others, is a critical part of coaching. NHL coaches must be adept at reading their players and knowing when to push them harder or when to give them a break. Emotional intelligence also helps coaches manage team dynamics, handle pressure, and navigate high-stress situations such as playoff pushes and personal disputes within the locker room.

3. Experience and Knowledge of the Game

Coaches who have played the game at the highest level often have an advantage in understanding the intricacies of the sport. This experience can translate into better decision-making during games and greater respect from players who may look up to the coach as someone who has been through similar situations. While some successful coaches in the NHL did not have illustrious playing careers, the majority of successful head coaches have a strong understanding of the game’s tactics and nuances.

4. Adaptability

The NHL is a rapidly evolving league, and successful coaches must be adaptable. A good coach must understand how the game is changing—whether it’s through new technologies, strategies, or player development trends—and adjust accordingly. Adaptability also extends to managing the roster, adjusting line combinations, and adapting to the strengths and weaknesses of different players.

Can Connor McDavid Make the Transition?

Given these qualities, does Connor McDavid have what it takes to be a great NHL head coach? There are several factors that suggest that McDavid could eventually succeed in a coaching role, but there are also obstacles that might make the transition difficult.

1. Leadership and Communication

McDavid’s leadership style has often been described as leading by example. He lets his play do the talking and motivates through his on-ice brilliance. However, the transition from being a player to a coach requires more than just leading by example. McDavid will need to develop stronger communication skills, particularly in motivating players who may not possess the same level of skill or drive. His quiet demeanor might be perceived as a strength by some, but in coaching, a more vocal and emotionally engaging approach could be necessary.

2. Experience and Knowledge of the Game

McDavid’s wealth of experience as a player, particularly in the high-pressure environment of the NHL, will certainly serve him well if he chooses to pursue coaching. He has played under some of the best coaches in the game and has been involved in numerous playoff battles. His deep understanding of the game’s strategy and tactics could give him a solid foundation for becoming a coach. However, McDavid would need to transition from being a player who focuses on his own game to someone who is responsible for overseeing the development and performance of an entire roster.

3. Emotional Intelligence and Adaptability

As McDavid matures and potentially gains experience in coaching roles as an assistant or in lower-level leagues, he may develop the emotional intelligence and adaptability needed for the job. His ability to read and manage people—especially in the high-stress environment of an NHL locker room—would be crucial. McDavid’s reserved personality could work in his favor if he becomes more in tune with the emotional needs of his players and learns to balance that with effective coaching techniques.