The Vancouver Canucks have signed goaltending coach Ian Clark, assistant coaches Nolan Baumgartner, Jason King and video coach Darryl Seward to contract extensions.
CANUCKS ANNOUNCE COACHING STAFF UPDATES
RELEASE https://t.co/PKZ2EeGk8d pic.twitter.com/aeQYsZR5A2— Vancouver #Canucks (@Canucks) June 9, 2021
Back in May, goaltender Thatcher Demko made clear his desire to have Clark return as the goaltending coach has played a major role in his emergence as the team’s starting goaltender.
“Clarkie is, he’s unbelievable,” Demko said of his mentor at the time. “I mean, I owe probably just about everything to him. I don’t speak too much about him in the media, but — obviously, I’m putting in the work — but the way he’s guided me and mentored me, it’s been amazing. I just really hope that they can figure something out, and have him return.”
Joining the coaching staff are Brad Shaw and Kyle Gustafson while Newell Brown will not return after four seasons with the team. The team also announced that Chris Higgins will remain in his role as assistant director of player development after spending this season working as a skill and development coach.
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“We’re excited to welcome two new members to our coaching staff,” head coach Travis Green said in a statement. “Brad has a vast amount of coaching experience and a strong technical mind for the game. Kyle is a bright, young coach who will help our team and strengthens our coaching staff.”
“We recognize the hard work and sacrifice every member of our coaching staff showed over the past year and thank them for their commitment,” continued Green. “We’re pleased to have them re-sign and continue the quality work they’re doing. Lastly, on behalf of our entire team, I want to thank Newell Brown for his commitment and dedication over the past four years. We wish Newell and his family the very best and future success.”
Shaw joins the Canucks after spending the last five seasons with the Columbus Blue Jackets where he was in charge of the defence in his time behind the bench. Gustafson spent the last 18 seasons with the WHL’s Portland Winterhawks serving as the team’s assistant general manager and associate coach.
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