Florida Panthers coach Paul Maurice set aside his focus on the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Final to comment on the firing of his friend and colleague Pete DeBoer as head coach of the Dallas Stars, following three consecutive seasons ending in the Western Conference Finals.
Despite strong regular-season performances, DeBoer was unable to lead the team beyond the conference finals in the playoffs, after a Game 5 loss to the powerful Edmonton Oilers led by captain Connor McDavid. Unable to elevate the performance of the team led by star Mikko Rantanen, his tenure came to an end.
Maurice and DeBoer have known each other for a long time, and the Panthers coach was close to facing DeBoer in the league final if Dallas had defeated Edmonton. Currently, with Florida playing the series against the Oilers, the experienced 58-year-old tactician offered a clear reaction.
Maurice’s message for DeBoer
“He’ll be alright. He’s a good coach. I think when you get elite teams, you’ve got to push them real hard to get to where they get to, and then at some point you need a summer off, pick your spot. He’s going to be OK,” Maurice said at a press conference, answering a question from The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun.
Friendship between DeBoer and Maurice
Pete DeBoer and Paul Maurice share a long-standing friendship that dates back to their days as teammates with the Windsor Spitfires in the Ontario Hockey League. This early bond laid the foundation for mutual respect and understanding that has lasted throughout their NHL coaching careers.
Their connection goes beyond friendship, as Maurice has consistently spoken highly of DeBoer’s coaching skills and character. Maurice’s public support following his colleague’s dismissal after his stint with the Stars reflects the loyalty and admiration between them.