Sources Confirm: Quenneville Set to Make Exciting NHL Comeback as Ducks’ New Head Coach

The Anaheim Ducks are set to welcome Joel Quenneville as their new head coach, as reported by ESPN. An official announcement and an introductory news conference are anticipated soon.

Quenneville has been absent from the NHL since 2021. He resigned as the coach of the Florida Panthers following the fallout from an investigation into the Chicago Blackhawks. An independent report revealed serious shortcomings in how the Blackhawks handled allegations from player Kyle Beach, who reported he was sexually assaulted by video coach Brad Aldrich during the team’s 2010 Stanley Cup run.

In light of the findings, the NHL deemed Quenneville, then-general manager Stan Bowman, and executive Al MacIsaac ineligible to work with any teams. The Blackhawks were fined $2 million for their inadequate response. However, by July 2024, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman lifted the ban after acknowledging the men’s “sincere remorse.”

Recently, the Ducks conducted a thorough review of Quenneville’s past. They spoke with Beach and advocacy groups to understand his actions since 2010. The team concluded that Quenneville worked diligently to reform and learn from past mistakes.

The Ducks were on the hunt for a new coach after parting ways with Greg Cronin. For seven seasons, the team has failed to reach the playoffs, despite showing signs of improvement in the 2024-25 season.

David Carle, who had a lengthy interview with the Ducks, eventually chose to extend his contract with Denver University. The team also sought Mike Sullivan but never interviewed him as he opted for the New York Rangers. Jay Woodcroft and Rick Tocchet were the other candidates considered before Quenneville was hired.

At 66, Quenneville is a notable figure in the NHL, boasting the second-most regular-season victories—969—while coaching teams like the Colorado Avalanche and the St. Louis Blues, along with his three Stanley Cup wins with the Blackhawks.

For those curious about the ongoing discussions around coaching changes in professional sports, a recent survey by the Sports Business Journal found that 62% of fans believe hiring coaches with past controversies should be reconsidered. This reflects shifting views in sports about accountability and transparency.

You can check more on this story through ESPN and stay updated on sports developments.

Source link