Shortly after the LA Kings and Norfolk Admirals hoisted their trophies, my local team announced a new head coach…Willie Desjardins! His track record is much longer plus he has winning credentials.
Let’s see if he can turn the Stars around from being in last place to a Calder contender. The people of Greater Austin got a taste of success in our first season, now we’re hooked and I think the whole Western Conference is jonsin’ since the East has won at least four years in a row.
This morning I read more about the people involved with the Kings’ success and what do you know, there were additional ex-Flyers: former head coach John Stevens as an assistant coach, retired goalie Ron Hextall as assistant GM and I think GM Dean Lombardi was involved with Philly’s coaching and/or scouting.
Next up, can another NHL lockout be avoided? For the sake of the game, I sure the hell hope so. The alternative means some rather talent-heavy AHL teams. It’s how the Philly Phantoms won the 2005 Calder.