Former Calgary Wranglers coach Mitch Love has been suspended for the remainder of the NHL season. This decision follows an investigation into allegations of domestic abuse. Love, who was recently an assistant coach with the Washington Capitals, faced serious allegations reported to the league.
Mitch Love’s Coaching Background
Mitch Love began his coaching career with the Calgary Wranglers and the Stockton Heat. He was hired by the Wranglers in 2021 and led the team for two full seasons. His leadership earned him the Louis A. R. Pieri Memorial Award as the league’s best coach for two consecutive years.
After his success, Love was considered a strong candidate for the head coach position with the Calgary Flames. However, the job ultimately went to Ryan Huska, which sparked some concerns among Flames fans about losing Love’s talents.
Suspension Details
In 2023, Love transitioned to the Washington Capitals as an assistant coach. His time with the Capitals was cut short because he was placed on leave in September. Reports indicate he has now been suspended for the entire 2025-26 NHL season.
This suspension is linked to a domestic abuse investigation initiated by the NHL. Allegations were reportedly communicated to teams that expressed interest in hiring Love during the previous summer.
Implications for Mitch Love
- Suspended for the remainder of the 2025-26 NHL season.
- Investigation centers on alleged domestic abuse claims.
- Previously had a strong coaching record with the Calgary Wranglers.
- There may have been prior warning to Flames management about the allegations.
The situation raises questions about the impact of personal conduct on professional opportunities within the NHL. For the Calgary Flames, it might have turned out to be a fortunate decision to hire Ryan Huska instead of Love. The situation continues to develop, and more details are expected as the investigation progresses.
