Mitch Love, a former Capitals assistant coach, has been named the head coach of the KHL's Shanghai Dragons, despite his suspension from the NHL. Love's appointment comes as a surprise, given his recent dismissal from the Capitals due to alleged domestic abuse. The NHL's decision to suspend Love for the 2025-26 season sparked controversy, with Love denying the allegations and expressing his disappointment. However, the KHL's Shanghai Dragons saw an opportunity in Love's situation, hiring him as their new head coach. Love's coaching career began with the AHL's Calgary Wranglers, where he was named AHL Coach of the Year in back-to-back seasons in 2022 and 2023. This appointment marks a significant shift in Love's career, as he transitions from the NHL to the KHL, taking on a team currently in ninth place in the Western Conference standings. The Dragons' CEO, Sergey Belykh, stated that the team evaluated multiple scenarios following Gerard Gallant's departure, ultimately choosing Love as their new head coach.
