When Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brian Burke announced that the team would not be retaining the services of Assistant coaches Tim Hunter and Keith Acton this summer, it was felt that former New York Islanders Coach Scott Gordon and former Northeastern University bench boss Greg Cronin would bring a new look to the Maple Leafs bench.
For Burke, the direction of his team was not where he wanted it to be, which facilitated the need for change. Rather than fire Maple Leafs Head Coach Ron Wilson, Burke chose to allow Wilson a chance at redemption, allowing his friend (who did the hiring) to select his assistants.
Gordon coached with Wilson during the 2010 Winter Olympics where he helped Team USA win a silver medal. One of his key responsibilities was handling Team USA’s penalty kill, which was very strong throughout the tournament.
Gordon also brought an AHL coach of the year award (2008) to the table, demonstrating an ability to teach and develop players.
Cronin, most recently c...
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