Tampa Bay Lightning coach Jon Cooper will return for the 2025-26 season, quelling speculation after a disappointing first-round exit in the NHL playoffs. General manager Julien BriseBois confirmed this on May 2, 2025, emphasizing the team’s commitment to Cooper’s leadership.
- Jon Cooper returns as Lightning coach
- Longest-tenured NHL coach since 2013
- Lightning's playoff struggles continue
- Cooper's community roots and partnership praised
- Speculation about Utah Hockey Club connection
- Isaac Howard unlikely to sign with Lightning
At 57, Cooper is the NHL’s longest-tenured coach, having steered the Lightning to two Stanley Cup victories and four Eastern Conference championships since his hiring in March 2013. Despite recent struggles, including three consecutive first-round playoff exits, BriseBois expressed confidence in Cooper’s ability to lead the team back to success.
As Cooper prepares for the upcoming season, questions linger about the Lightning’s future. Can they reclaim their former glory? With Cooper’s track record, the potential for a turnaround is promising.
- Cooper’s contract extends through the 2025-26 season.
- He led the Lightning to back-to-back championships in 2020 and 2021.
- Speculation about his future included a potential move to the Utah Hockey Club.
- General manager BriseBois remains optimistic about their partnership.
Looking forward, fans should keep an eye on the Lightning’s roster moves and upcoming games as they strive to regain their competitive edge in the NHL.
