Minor Hockey Talks - Hockey Forum

The Kitchener Rangers' coaching staff extensions through the 2026-27 season raise some interesting questions about the team's future and potential Memorial Cup bid. Is this a sign that the Rangers are all-in on a championship run in the next couple of years? With their current success and a core built to peak around the proposed Memorial Cup bid, is this the right move to maximize their chances?

Some might argue that two years is too short a timeframe for a coaching staff to fully implement their vision and develop players, especially in junior hockey where roster turnover is high. Others might say that stability behind the bench is crucial for a team with championship aspirations. What are your thoughts? Is this the right amount of time for an extension, or should they have gone longer or shorter?

This move also puts a lot of pressure on the current roster to perform. Can they live up to the expectations that come with locking up a coaching staff for a potential Memorial Cup run? Do you think the players will feel extra pressure knowing the organization is committed to this coaching staff for the foreseeable future?

Finally, what kind of message does this send to other teams in the OHL? Is Kitchener setting a new standard for coaching stability, or is this a gamble that could backfire if the team doesn't achieve its goals? Do you think other OHL teams will follow suit and offer longer-term contracts to their coaching staff? Let’s discuss!