NHL Awards Update: Jack Adams Award Finalists Announced and More!
The Jack Adams Award finalists for the top coach in the NHL were announced, with Jon Cooper of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Dan Muse of the Pittsburgh Penguins, and Lindy Ruff of the Buffalo Sabres in the running. Cooper led the Lightning to a strong season, finishing second in the Atlantic Division and securing a playoff spot. Muse guided the Penguins to their first playoff berth in four seasons, while Ruff orchestrated a remarkable turnaround for the Sabres, winning the Atlantic Division after a slow start.
Cooper, a three-time finalist, aims to become the first Lightning coach to win the award since 2003-04. Muse could be the first rookie coach to win since 2013-14, and Ruff, a finalist for the fifth time, seeks to add to his previous win in 2005-06. The winner will be announced at a later date, with other NHL Awards finalists set to be revealed in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned for updates on the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, Calder Memorial Trophy, Frank J. Selke Trophy, James Norris Memorial Trophy, Hart Memorial Trophy, and Willie O'Ree Community Hero Award. The Jim Gregory General Manager of the Year Award finalists will be announced after the First Round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Winners of the King Clancy Memorial Trophy and Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award will also be announced. For more details on these awards, visit Records.NHL.com.