Sure, Columbus Blue Jackets coach John Tortorella became the first American-born coach to reach 500 wins. But is he the best U.S. coach in the history of the game?
Tortorella, Herb Brooks, Ron Wilson, Jack Riley, Mike Sullivan and Peter Laviolette are all on my short list. However, Bob Johnson, the man who coined the legendary phrase "It's a great day for hockey," rivals Tortorella as the GOAT in the U.S.
"Probably between Bob Johnson and Herb Brooks," Hall of Famer Pat LaFontaine said. "If counting NHL: Bob Johnson. To date, I would say that's a fair comment.