John Tortorella expressed disappointment following the Vegas Golden Knights' decision not to retain him as head coach after their Stanley Cup Final run. Tortorella took over as interim coach late in the regular season, leading the team to a strong finish and a deep playoff push, ultimately losing to the Carolina Hurricanes in the Final.

Despite the successful interim period, the Golden Knights opted to promote Ryan Craig, who previously coached their AHL affiliate, to the head coaching position. Tortorella, who has coached six NHL teams and won a Stanley Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2003-04, stated he had an honest conversation with General Manager Kelly McCrimmon and respects the organization's direction.

Now 68, Tortorella is seeking his next coaching opportunity, admitting he "wanted to coach that Vegas team" and was eager to continue with them. He also addressed a past incident where he skipped a postgame news conference, explaining it was due to timing and not a refusal to participate, and has since spoken with Craig to offer support.