What if the Golden Knights didn't fire DeBoer?

In a bizarre world, the Vegas Golden Knights held onto Pete DeBoer instead of firing him in 2022. What happens in this alternate reality?
Colorado Avalanche v Dallas Stars - Game Five
Colorado Avalanche v Dallas Stars - Game Five | Richard Rodriguez/GettyImages
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June 14, 2022, was a monumental day for Vegas Golden Knights fans. It was when Kelly McCrimmon hired Bruce Cassidy to be the third head coach in franchise history.

I know what you're thinking. Three head coaches heading into their sixth season? Something's gotta be wrong with the team.

Well, dear reader. Things are a tad different in Las Vegas. You see, expectations are high in Sin City, especially when you make the Stanley Cup Final in your inaugural season. You're expected to fulfill promises and deliver a title soon. Otherwise, the community will become restless and turn on you.

That's especially true when you miss the playoffs for the first time in franchise history. Suddenly, the haters are counting down the days until they die on your deathbed. They're hosting "Downfall of the Golden Knights" parties until the morning sun arrives, complete with the finest chardonnay. It was a sight that Bill Foley couldn't stand to see.

Therefore, Pete DeBoer had to go for the former Boston Bruins head coach. Lo and behold, the Golden Knights win the Stanley Cup in 2023. Along the way, they defeated the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference, who were coached by... Pete DeBoer.