Taya Gray/The Desert Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

NHL Veteran Connor Carrick Comes to the Defense of Controversial Kraken Coach Jessica Campbell

Originally posted on House of Hockey | By Tom Banks | Last updated Mar 23, 2025 1:32 PM ET

Jessica Campbell has drawn very odd backlash on social media as the first female coach in NHL history, and now a veteran NHLer has stood up for her in a big way.

After a stellar run as an assistant with Dan Bylsma in the AHL with the Coachella Valley Firebirds, Jessica Campbell made NHL history earlier this season, becoming the first female coach of any kind in league history.

For some reason however, despite all of the qualifications and the support of the Kraken coaching staff and players, Campbell still draws plenty of backlash on social media from fans.

Most of that can be completely ignored, but recently, NHL veteran Connor Carrick decided to stand up for Campbell, as the 30-year old veteran played under her coaching in 2023/24 in Coachella Valley.

Jess does a great job for the record. Enjoyed working with her in Coachella Valley.

Carrick was responding to a post made by Bleacher Report about Campbell that drew plenty of ridiculous comments about her ability as a coach, and for the most part, he echoed the sentiments of many that she is a brilliant coach and very worthy of her spot in the league.

Unfortunately, people making history like Campbell and paving the way for others are often met with ridiculous backlash, and this situation has been absolutely no different, although she continues to coach brilliantly in Seattle despite this.

Ultimately, there's no way to stop the unnecessary hate on social media, but with people like Carrick and many around the Kraken speaking out about how good Campbell is, it's safe to say that those that know her have immense respect for the role she plays and will continue to do so as she rises through the ranks.

This article first appeared on House of Hockey and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: