The Vegas Golden Knights remain without a coach, but general manager George McPhee says the team has a checklist for what they're looking for in their first bench boss.

McPhee said that the pace that the NHL game changes at means the team will need to have a coach who can adapt quickly. He added creativity could also play a factor.

"We want someone who is very current on the game, who is progressive on how the game should be played," McPhee said in a recent phone call with season ticket holders, per the team's website. "This game really changes in a year or two's time.

"There are new ways of checking, news ways of attacking. New ways of lining up in your own zone, believe it or not. It's amazing how quickly coaches can change things, and how quickly other coaches adapt to it."

He noted the ability to develop players is also a key aspect their search. The Knights have already signed their first prospect and will own the third-best odds for the first overall pick in the draft lottery.

"We're looking for that progressive guy that can really help us through the early years and help develop our team and our players," McPhee said. "And be the same guy that's there with us when we're competing for a championship.

"I've had the opportunity to work with lots of coaches in the NHL. I've had great experiences in the World Championships, working with several NHL coaches. And so, we know who's out there.

"We decided way back in August that we're going to take our time, interview people along the way and then pick the guy sometime in the spring that we feel is right for this hockey club. That plan hasn't changed."

Ken Hitchcock, Jack Capuano, Gerard Gallant and Michel Therrien are among the currently available options after being fired this season. That list will likely grow when the NHL regular season ends next month.