Neilson began his coaching career in the World Hockey Association (WHA) in 1978, where he coached the Toronto Toros. He then moved to the NHL, where he coached the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Vancouver Canucks, the Los Angeles Kings, the New York Rangers, the Philadelphia Flyers, the Florida Panthers, and the Ottawa Senators. He was also the head coach of the Canadian national team at the 1984 Canada Cup.
Neilson was known for his creative and innovative coaching strategies, which included the use of video to analyze opponents and the use of a "trap" system to stifle opposing offenses. He was also known for his ability to motivate his players and get the most out of them.
Neilson was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2002. He was also awarded the Jack Adams Award in 1989, which is given to the NHL's top coach. He was also the recipient of the NHL's Lester Patrick Trophy in 2002, which is awarded for outstanding service to hockey in the United States.
Neilson's career was marked by success and innovation. He was able to get the most out of his players and was a pioneer in the use of video and other strategies to gain an edge over opponents. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2002, a fitting recognition of his long and successful career.
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