We’ve got more NHL rumours to get you through your day. There has been plenty of talk about the big ticket teams in our latest rumours. However, there are a number of coaching openings that need to be filled. A few teams are going to have a new bench boss and general managers have work to do. Today’s NHL rumours takes a look at the Anaheim Ducks coach search.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Update on Anaheim Ducks Coach Search
Rumour: Elliotte Friedman mentioned an old name may resurface as part of the Anaheim Ducks coach search. The Sportsnet insider mentioned that Mike Babcock might make a return to Orange County. He coached the team for two seasons starting in 2002 and guided the then Mighty Ducks to the Stanley Cup Final. The 60-year-old then had NHL stints with the Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs. He also coached the University of Saskatchewan for a couple of seasons.
32 Thoughts news pod — Arizona reaction, GM/coach opening updates. Great answers to terrible questions directed at Comcast Spectacor Chairman & CEO Daniel Hilferty (including some strong job-interview advice). Links to your preferred platform, here: https://t.co/io7Mr1QEpm
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) May 17, 2023
Lisa Dillman of The Orange County Register offered up some assistants that may get a shot at the job. Dillman said Jay Leach, Kirk Muller, Brad Shaw, Mike Vellucci and Trent Yawney should get a look from general manager Pat Verbeek. However, Verbeek is overseas in Finland as part of the IIHF World Championships. This may delay the interview proccess.
What’s Next for Anaheim Ducks Coach Search?
Babcock’s ending with the Leafs was unceremonious and some feel the game has passed him by. However, Babcock has won pretty much at any stop he’s been at.
The assistants/associate coaches may be unproven at the NHL level. However, the Ducks have plenty of young talent and may be able to relate to a younger coach. Anaheim boasts young guns like Trevor Zegras, Troy Terry, Jamie Drysdale and likely Adam Fantilli. There’s hope with the Ducks’ roster and picking the right coach will be critical.
