11/24/24
February 24, 2004
Gretzky's 'Yotes fire fairly. On the same day, which is unusual, Phoenix head coach Bob Francis gets the axe, while veteran forward Brian Savage is essentially fired. The usual 'coach takes the fall for players' mantra doesn't hold this time. And thats a good thing because the Coyotes had a good run this year. Starting with a new logo, and a new arena a bit later, and stars being born by the All Star break. But with their leading scorer dislocating his wrist, a veteran net minder shipped out of town, and perennial Western powers Dallas finding its stride and St.Louis continuing to win enough, it was time to shut it down for the year. (aside: I found this cool site while populating links)
rosey, what is up with Burke? Or are JR's and Keith's absences the real issue?
posted by garfield at 02:46 PM on February 24, 2004
Shouldn't the Flyers just change the logo to a Coyote anyhow?
posted by pivo at 03:13 PM on February 24, 2004
Don't look now, but Francis isn't the only coach looking for a new job. Joel Quenneville was let go by the Blue's today. The timing seems a bit strange considering they are in a very tight playoff race for the last 4 postions in the west.
posted by camcanuck at 05:42 PM on February 24, 2004
Yeah, Francis' firing isn't much of a surprise. But Quenneville? A few weeks ago, they were the best team in the league. Then again, changing coaches late in the season did work for New Jersey.
posted by mkn at 06:10 PM on February 24, 2004
aside: I found this cool site while populating links Nothing like disgracing the Philadelphia Flyers with a backwards logo on the team page... ...wait, I forgot! It seems if lately the orange & black disgrace themselves everytime they take to the ice.