Read more here: http://www.star-telegram.com/2013/06/20/4953078/stars-will-hire-ruff-as-head-coach.html#storylink=cpy
Most hockey observers believed former Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff wouldn't be out a job very long.They were right.
The Dallas Stars officially hired Ruff as the team's next head coach Friday morning. He will be introduced at a 1 p.m. news conference, taking over from Glenn Gulutzan, who was fired last month.
“One of the trademarks of successful organizations is their ability to have continuity and stability for an extended period of time,” said Stars General Manager Jim Nill, in a statement. “It is clear from Lindy’s record, and from our own conversations, that we have found the right person to provide that stability and lead this club to the next level. His steady hand and experience will prove invaluable in returning our team as a top-tier contender in the NHL.”
Ruff, who enjoyed a long career as a Sabres players, was in his 15th season coaching the team when he was let go in February following a poor start to the lockout-shortened season. He compiled a record of 571-432-78-84 in the years spanning 1997 to 2013 and won the Jack Adams Award as NHL coach of the year in 2006.
Ruff, 53, now takes over the team that defeated the Sabres in their one Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 1999.
Dallas won in six games, in a series that included a controversial Brett Hull overtime goal where the skater's foot appeared to be the crease, which, by rule, should have disallowed the winning tally.
“I am honored to be joining the Dallas Stars organization,” said Ruff. “After speaking at length with Jim Nill, it was clear that all the right pieces are coming together to return this club to the upper-echelon of the NHL. I look forward to leading its resurgence.”
The Stars are have missed the playoffs for five consecutive seasons.
