Just hours after the news that the Atlanta Thrashers could name their next head coach before this weekend’s NHL draft, we learn just who that coach may be. Craig Ramsay, current Bruins assistant coach, will be named to the Thrashers head position, according to James Duthie of TSN.
Report: Thrashers Set To Name Craig Ramsay Head Coach
Craig Ramsey to be named head coach in Atlanta
james duthie
tsnjamesduthie
The news was also verified by Chris Vivlamore, Thrashers beat writer at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Vivlamore says the announcement could come as early as Thursday.
Ramsay has been an assistant coach in the NHL for 15 years, spending the last three of those with the Boston Bruins. One two instances, in 1986-87 and 2001-02, he got his chance to be the head boss behind an NHL bench. In ‘86 he took over the Buffalo Sabres on an interim basis, going 25-37 while missing the playoffs. He wasn’t brought back.
Ramsay took over the Philadelphia Flyers in 2000 after Roger Neilson was diagnosed with cancer. He led them to the Eastern Conference Finals and was brought back on a permanent basis the next season, but after an underwhelming start, Bill Barber replaced Ramsay. The rationale for firing Ramsay after just a handful of games? He was too easygoing behind the bench.
For more reaction, check out the newly-launched SB Nation Atlanta, and of course our Thrashers blog, Bird Watchers Anonymous.
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