Rangers, Ducks Fire Head Coaches After Disappointing Seasons

The Anaheim Ducks have fired head coach Greg Cronin after two seasons, despite the team improving from 59 to 80 points and seeing development in their young core. General Manager Pat Verbeek cited the need for a new direction and voice to help the Ducks become Stanley Cup contenders, acknowledging Cronin’s role in player development but emphasizing the team's continued struggles, particularly missing the playoffs for the eighth consecutive year. The Ducks' coaching search is now underway, with rumored candidates including Philadelphia Flyers interim head coach Brad Shaw and Denver University’s David Carle, who may be a good fit for the Ducks' youthful roster. The organization is seeking a coach who can address defensive weaknesses and poor special teams performance to propel the team into playoff contention.