Speculation running rampant as the Chicago Wolves make a sudden coaching change

Friday morning was a busy one for the hockey world, and the Carolina Hurricanes were no exception. While a major trade within the division stole the headlines, the Canes made a move that was far less grand in stature but far more confusing. It was a decision that left many, me included, scratching our heads.

The Hurricanes announced on Friday morning, through their official site and social media pages, that Chicago Wolves Head Coach Cam Abbott had been relieved of his duties, with Assistant Coach Spiros Anastas taking over on an interim basis. This wording suggests that there might be more behind the scenes.

Abbott was named the Wolves' bench boss last August with the announcement that the Hurricanes and the Wolves were once again partners. He led the Wolves to a 37-31-4 record in 2024-25, finishing fourth in the Central Division before being swept in the first round by the Rockford IceHogs in a quick two-game set. He also coached the team's prospects at the last two rookie showcases.

The decision to let Abbott go, on the surface, doesn't appear to be performance-related. The Wolves are currently tied for third in the Central Division following a weekend sweep of the Milwaukee Admirals. Frankly, it's quite impressive what he's been able to do with the Wolves' roster being decimated at times to help the Hurricanes work through their injuries.

While the reasoning is unclear, fans online speculate that it could be related to the Wolves' early-December signing of Cal Foote, one of the five Hockey Canada players acquitted over the summer, to an AHL-exclusive contract. Unless Abbott himself makes a statement explaining the decision, we'll likely remain in the dark about what really happened.

Anastas is well-respected throughout the organization

Taking over behind the bench for the first time at the AHL level, Spiros Anastas brings a wealth of knowledge spanning over a decade and a half. He has held various titles throughout his coaching career, including a few seasons as the head coach of the ECHL's Brampton Beast and South Carolina Stingrays. Anastas has also coached internationally for several countries at various competitions.

Most importantly, many in the Hurricanes organization have had nothing but positive things to say about him. Team reporter Walt Ruff called Anastas "as high-quality a person as it gets." Anastas was in his second season as an assistant coach on Abbott's staff before earning the interim label on Friday.

The Wolves appear to be in good hands with Anastas, though a black cloud hangs over the decision, given the sudden nature of Abbott's departure. There is almost certainly more to the story, though it's doubtful we'll ever know the true extent of the details behind the move. Until then, it'll remain business as usual for both the Carolina Hurricanes and the Chicago Wolves.