John Tortorella has been behind the Vegas Golden Knights bench for just over a month, and the results speak for themselves: a Pacific Division title and a first-round playoff victory over Utah in six games. The veteran coach, who replaced Bruce Cassidy in March, has taken a hands-off approach with his experienced roster, and it’s paying off as the Knights prepare to face Anaheim in the second round starting Monday at T-Mobile Arena.

“I don’t think there’s any panic,” Tortorella said. “I think they know how to handle themselves as far as being ready to play, no matter if you’re winning or losing. No matter which way the swings of the game are going. Just get back to your game and play.”

General manager Kelly McCrimmon praised Tortorella’s ability to adapt to a veteran team, noting that he has leaned on assistant coaches and allowed players to lead. “Good coaches coach the team in front of them,” McCrimmon said. “John has come into an older, more experienced team than some of his previous stops and recognizes that and has adjusted his coaching accordingly.”

The Knights have shown remarkable resolve, particularly in third-period comebacks, which Tortorella attributes to the team’s maturity. “As far as them losing themselves, they don’t. They stay with it,” he said. “Sometimes, it’s successful. Sometimes, it isn’t. But they handle themselves really well.”

Tortorella has made tactical adjustments to lines and power-play units, but his main impact has been restoring confidence after doubts crept in under Cassidy. “I thought (Cassidy) was a really good bench coach as well, I’ll start there,” McCrimmon said. “(Tortorella) just has a different manner.”

The best-of-seven series against the Ducks begins Monday. The Knights, who won the Stanley Cup in 2023, are aiming for another deep run.