5 Oilers coaching candidates after Kris Knoblauch was fired

It's time once again for the Edmonton Oilers to look for a head coach. Kris Knoblauch -- who led the franchise to two straight Stanley Cup Final berths only to see the team fall short to the Florida Panthers -- was reportedly let go on Thursday, which might be a bit of a surprise. But the Oilers have been left looking for answers to the continued questions about their high expectations, along with keeping superstar Connor McDavid happy .

So who could be the name the Canadian franchise goes after next? Here are some names who could fit the bill as the Oilers begin their hiring process: Bruce Cassidy The name at the top of every team's list. He's won a Stanley Cup and he's got a history of success with the Vegas Golden Knights and Boston Bruins .

Peter Laviolette Another name floating around with experience and a Cup win. Ignore what happened with the New York Rangers -- that felt more about the roster makeup than Laviolette's fault. Patrick Roy Maybe this is the candidate that you pick if you really want to change things up.

Would the fierce Hall of Fame goaltender be the answer to light a fire under the Oilers? Gerard Gallant Another experienced name with a solid resume. If this veteran squad needs stability, he might be the guy.