Ducks News: Anaheim Completes HC Search, Welcomes in Longtime Assistant/Developmental NHL Coach

Can this hire turn things around for Anaheim?

After one of the longest seasons in Anaheim Ducks history that saw them end with the worst record in the NHL, the search for a new head coach is over. Greg Cronin takes over as the leading man in Anaheim as he gets his first head coaching gig in the NHL.

He brings a ton of experience to the table, including spending the last five seasons leading the Colorado Eagles, the Colorado Avalanche's primary affiliate in the AHL. Cronin has also spent 12 years as an assistant coach in the NHL so he understands what it takes to win at the professional level.

"Being a young team, I felt we needed a teacher of the finer points of the game, and someone who has worked extensively over time with talented young players, helping them develop into successful NHL players. Greg has done all that and more, and we are excited to name him head coach of the Anaheim Ducks."

-Ducks General Manager Pat Verbeek on Cronin

Cronin should bring some new energy to this team, something they have lacked of late. He is known for his intensity and getting the best out of his players. This is a welcome sight for fans as the team heads into a crucial offseason with many questions looming.

The Ducks have seen their franchise trend downward over the last five plus seasons and they believe that this change will be the start of a strong run. The team has a ton of young talent on the roster and they have the second overall pick in the upcoming NHL Draft.

The future is bright out in Anaheim and this is just the start to rebuilding a winning hockey culture in Orange County.