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Coaches in the National Hockey League typically guide their teams from beside the ice. However, certain moments place them directly in the spotlight. Explosive interactions and memorable joyous outbursts mark instances where five coaches became central figures in events that remain vivid in people’s minds.
1. D.J. Smith Was Hit by Shattered Glass
During the 2026 playoffs, a barrier between the Los Angeles Kings’ team area and spectators broke. This sent glass fragments toward acting coach D.J. Smith. That strange occurrence led to a significant pause in the Kings’ match against Colorado.
Source: NHL.com — D.J. Smith’s 2026 season
2. Patrick Roy Shook the Bench Glass
He was coaching his very first NHL game for Colorado in 2013. A collision involving young player Nathan MacKinnon agitated him greatly. He moved swiftly toward the barrier between the team areas. He shook it while addressing Anaheim’s coach Bruce Boudreau. This action resulted in a ten-thousand-dollar penalty.
Source: NHL.com — Patrick Roy’s career marked by intensity
3. John Tortorella Clashed With a Fan
Furthermore, during a 2009 playoff contest, New York Rangers coach John Tortorella engaged with individuals in the stands. He sprayed one person with water. He also threw a water bottle into the crowd. This led to a one-game absence from coaching duties.
4. Rod Brind’Amour Tossed the Stanley Cup
Following Carolina’s 2026 Stanley Cup victory, Rod Brind’Amour lifted the championship prize. He then tossed it upwards, catching it before holding it close. This jubilant act mirrored his own experience as the Hurricanes’ captain winning in 2006.
Source: NHL.com — Brind’Amour’s memorable Cup celebration
5. Mike Babcock Resigned Before Coaching a Game
Mike Babcock’s tenure with Columbus in 2023 proved brief. It concluded after just eleven weeks. He stepped down without coaching a regular-season game. This followed reports about requests for personal pictures of players. He later returned to the NHL as Edmonton’s coach in 2026.
Source: NHL.com — Babcock resigns from Columbus
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