Who is the new head coach of the Shanghai Dragons?

Mitch Love is the new head coach of the Shanghai Dragons.

What was Mitch Love suspended for by the NHL?

Mitch Love was suspended by the NHL in 2025 for alleged 'conduct detrimental to the league'.

What team did Mitch Love coach in the NHL?

Mitch Love previously served as an assistant coach for the Washington Capitals.

Home / Sports / Ex-NHL Coach Love Takes KHL Helm Amidst Controversy

Ex-NHL Coach Love Takes KHL Helm Amidst Controversy

18 Jan

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Summary

Mitch Love hired as Shanghai Dragons head coach in KHL.
Love previously suspended by NHL for 'conduct detrimental to league'.
Love denied allegations after NHL suspension in 2025.

Ex-NHL Coach Love Takes KHL Helm Amidst Controversy

Mitch Love has been named the new head coach for the Shanghai Dragons in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), stepping into the role vacated by Gerard Gallant due to health concerns. Love, 41, brings experience from his tenure as an assistant coach with the Capitals for two seasons and a successful stint as head coach of the AHL's Calgary Wranglers, where he was twice named AHL Coach of the Year.

Love's appointment comes after a turbulent period in his career. He was suspended by the NHL for the 2025-26 season and subsequently fired by the Capitals in October 2025. The league cited "conduct detrimental to the league" as the reason, with eligibility for reinstatement set for the 2026-27 season under certain conditions.

Despite the allegations, Love has consistently denied any wrongdoing and expressed disappointment with the NHL's decision. He is set to guide the Dragons, who are currently ninth in the KHL's Western Conference standings, one position outside of a playoff spot, as they aim to improve their standing in the remaining part of the season.