Lightning GM reaffirms commitment to Jon Cooper: 'Going to be here for a while'

May 05, 2026 - 1:09pm

Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper watches the action from the bench during the second period of an NHL hockey game against the Washington Capitals Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, in Washington. (John McDonnell/AP)

The Tampa Bay Lightning are very happy with their head coach.

General manager Julien BriseBois reaffirmed his commitment to Jon Cooper when asked about the long-time coach's contract status during end-of-season availabilities on Tuesday.

"He's going to be here for a while," BriseBois said.

Cooper has been the head coach of the Lightning since 2012-13, guiding them to 11 playoff appearances, four final appearances and two Stanley Cups.

Questions were raised about Cooper's status after the Lightning lost in Round 1 to the Montreal Canadiens in Game 7 on Sunday, marking Tampa Bay's fourth consecutive first-round exit.

Cooper is the winningest coach in Lightning history with 622 victories in 1,043 games coached. He's also a finalist for the Jack Adams award this season, presented to the NHL’s coach of the year.