I remember reading a few articles that claimed he'd basically been blacklisted from the league. I won't comment on why because the rumors are easily found once you start looking. If there is any truth to those rumors than it's no surprise he's done in the NHL. No team would want that headache.
I mean a lot of it just came from the horses mouth. Not sure if that would constitute Libel.
But more or less, he is absolutely LOVED in the dressing room, but hated by management.
He can unite a locker-room often by turning on management and making management "the enemy".
Us vs Them.
I've worked for managers and leaders like that, and what tends to happen, is you do your best work for them, but are actively seeking newer opportunities.
This is conjecture on my part:
But imagine if he straight up tells a player:
"Management told me to reduce your minutes, and give you mostly defensive zone starts so your next contract negotiation will be more favorable. f*** that, lets see if we can get you 20 goals".