Cooper's 'Perfect Demeanor' Keeps Lightning Among NHL's Elite

Tampa Bay coach Jon Cooper continues to guide the franchise to sustained success despite roster turnover.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 4:00am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a hockey game or match, with the players and action broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in vibrant colors like deep blue, bright red, and metallic silver, conveying the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the Lightning's play under coach Jon Cooper.The Lightning's continued success under coach Jon Cooper's steady leadership is reflected in the team's dynamic, multifaceted play on the ice.Today in Tampa

Despite the departure of longtime captain Steven Stamkos, Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper has kept the team among the NHL's best, with the Lightning in a tight race for the Atlantic Division title. Cooper's calm demeanor and strong relationships with his players and staff have been key factors in the team's continued success, which includes three Stanley Cup Final appearances in the last six seasons and two championships.

Why it matters

The Lightning's ability to remain an elite team despite significant roster changes underscores Cooper's coaching acumen and the organizational stability he has helped build in Tampa Bay. As one of the longest-tenured coaches in the NHL, Cooper's sustained success has solidified the Lightning as one of the league's premier franchises.

The details

Under Cooper's guidance, the Lightning have continued to thrive, led by star forward Nikita Kucherov, who has won the Art Ross Trophy as the NHL's scoring champion in two of the last three seasons. Cooper's ability to get the most out of his players, including managing the transition after the departure of Stamkos, has been crucial to the team's ongoing success.

  • Cooper coached his 1,000th NHL game on December 31, 2025 when the Lightning defeated the Anaheim Ducks 4-3.
  • Stamkos left the Lightning as a free agent on July 1, 2024 to join the Nashville Predators.

The players

Jon Cooper

The head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Cooper has been with the team since 2013 and is the longest-tenured coach in the NHL. He has guided the Lightning to three Stanley Cup Final appearances and two championships during his tenure.

Nikita Kucherov

A star forward for the Tampa Bay Lightning, Kucherov has won the Art Ross Trophy as the NHL's scoring champion in two of the last three seasons. He is a key part of the Lightning's continued success under Cooper's leadership.

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What they’re saying

“Jon has the perfect demeanor behind the bench and his players enjoy playing for him.”

— Kenny Albert, TNT network play-by-play broadcaster

“Connor is a racehorse, whereas 'Kuch' slows it down and plays at his own pace. They're two elite players doing it two different ways.”

— Jon Cooper, Tampa Bay Lightning head coach

“What Cooper and Arbour have in common is an understanding of strategy, structure and how they are absolutes for consistent winning. 'Coop' knows how to delegate and build strong relationships with his assistant coaches. He calms the waters rather than cause huge negative waves when things aren't going well. Plus, he has strong relationships with his players.”

— Glenn 'Chico' Resch, New Jersey Devils radio analyst

What’s next

The Lightning will look to continue their strong play and secure a division title as the regular season winds down.

The takeaway

Jon Cooper's steady leadership and ability to get the most out of his players have been instrumental in the Tampa Bay Lightning's sustained success, even as the roster has evolved over the years. His calm demeanor and strong relationships with the team have helped the franchise remain among the NHL's elite.