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Report: Sharks talking to Oates about coaching gig

Adam Oates

San Jose’s search to replace Todd McLellan continued today, with TSN reporting GM Doug Wilson would speak with former Washington Capitals and New Jersey Devils bench boss Adam Oates.

Oates, 52, spent two seasons in Washington, going 65-48-17 while making one playoff appearance (losing in seven games in the opening round of ’13.) He then spent last year as co-coach -- along with Scott Stevens and, briefly, Lou Lamoriello -- after the Devils turfed Peter DeBoer.

Speaking of DeBoer, he and Oates find themselves connected once again as San Jose casts a wide net in the search for a new coach. The former Panthers and Devils bench boss has also interviewed for the San Jose job, along with Randy Carlyle. Wilson has also reportedly gained permission from Pittsburgh to interview Dan Bylsma.

That Oates is getting an interview in San Jose is slightly amusing, given the minor spat he and Wilson had in the fall of 2013. Following Sharks forward Tomas Hertl’s between-the-legs goal against the Rangers, Oates criticized the rookie for “disrespecting the league,” comments that Wilson quickly fired back at.

“I think [Oates] should worry about coaching his team, and not worry about being a caretaker of the game,” Wilson said. “I would not allow our coaches to make comments about other team’s players.”