John Tortorella is back in the Stanley Cup Final as head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights. The 67-year-old took over the team late in the 2025-26 regular season and has led them deep into the playoffs.
The Golden Knights trail the Carolina Hurricanes 3-2 in the best-of-seven series. Carolina won Game 5 by a 4-2 score on Thursday night in Raleigh. Game 6 is set for Sunday in Las Vegas, with a potential Game 7 to follow if needed.
Tortorella previously won the Stanley Cup in 2004 with the Tampa Bay Lightning as a first-time head coach. He has a long history in the NHL, including stops with the New York Rangers, Columbus Blue Jackets and Philadelphia Flyers. His teams have reached the playoffs multiple times, and he has earned two Jack Adams Awards as coach of the year.
In Vegas, Tortorella has emphasized stability and a direct style. The Golden Knights advanced past the Utah Mammoth, Anaheim Ducks and Colorado Avalanche in earlier rounds before reaching the Final. Key players like Tomas Hertl and Jack Eichel have been part of the push under his leadership.
Tortorella has stayed outspoken during the series, including after Game 5 when he defended his goalie choices. The Knights will look to even the series on home ice this weekend.