Craig MacTavish has been fired by Lokomotiv Yaroslavl of the KHL after just eight games with the club. Before being hired by Lokomotiv on a two-year contract back in May 2019, MacTavish spent most of his post playing career with the Edmonton Oilers, serving as Head Coach from 2000 to 2009 and again in 2014 when he served as an interim Head Coach. He also spent time as the Oilers' General Manager and Vice President of Hockey Operations.
Lokomotiv registered 3 wins and 5 losses under MacTavish and currently sits in 11th place in the Western Conference. Despite being a top 3 team in the KHL on paper, Lokomotiv just couldn't figure out how to play as a team for MacTavish and often did not understand or ignored his directions, which ultimately led to his firing.
With an NHL coaching record of 301-252-47, and a Stanley Cup finals appearance, it is unlikely that this will be the last time we see MacTavish behind the bench of a professional hockey team.
MacTavish also had an impressive playing career. In 1093 games he recorded 213 goals and 480 points, and is a four time Stanley Cup champion, winning three with the Edmonton Oilers and one with the New York Rangers. MacTavish also has the claim to fame of being the last NHL player to not wear a helmet during games.
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