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There have been times in hockey when a new coach was able to completely transform a team by bringing a new perspective to how the team could play. Sometimes teams turn their play around immediately with the coaching change. Here are five of these massive coaching turnarounds.
Scotty Bowman
Under Bowman, the Penguins would capture yet another Stanley Cup championship and, furthermore, post their greatest regular season ever in 1992-93. His brilliant strategies and experience had transformed Pittsburgh into a dynasty on the ice.
Joel Quenneville
His guidance transformed the team into a dominant force in professional hockey. The franchise celebrated Stanley Cup victories in 2010, 2013, and 2015. Furthermore, his time as coach established the team as a contemporary leader in the sport. This era also brought an end to a lengthy wait for a championship.
Barry Trotz
Barry Trotz came into the situation in 2014 with the Washington Capitals and would build them into an organized franchise once again. Washington picked up 2 Presidents’ Trophies in 2016 and 2017, before finally lifting Lord Stanley’s Trophy in 2018.
Mike Babcock
Mike Babcock arrived in Detroit for the 2005 season and established a critical element in the Red Wings’ long string of success. The Red Wings took home the Stanley Cup in 2008, and another championship appearance in 2009. Babcock had the team on lock every regular season and became the greatest winning coach in Detroit history.
Rod Brind’Amour
Rod Brind’Amour was appointed head coach of the Hurricanes in 2018. Under his guidance, the Hurricanes play with an attacking style. The Hurricanes also appeared in the 2019 Eastern Conference Final after building up into one of the league’s strongest teams.
Sources:
Pittsburgh Penguins: Scotty Bowman Hall of Fame profile
Chicago Blackhawks: NHL: Joel Quenneville career timeline
Washington Capitals: NHL: Trotz leaves as coach of Capitals
Detroit Red Wings: NHL: Stanley Cup Champions list
Carolina Hurricanes: NHL: Brind’Amour named Hurricanes coach
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