The Canadian has granted a three-year contract to Martin St-Louis, at the same time removing the interim label attached to his position as head coach of the Montreal team, confirmed general manager Kent Hughes on Tuesday morning.
St-Louis was named interim head coach on February 9, replacing Dominique Ducharme. Under his leadership, the team posted a record of 14 wins, 19 losses and four overtime losses. The Canadian still finished 32nd and last in the Bettman circuit thanks to a poor record of 22-49-11.
“Martin has undeniable leadership qualities, in addition to being an excellent communicator and passionate about hockey. He has a wealth of experience and a very deep understanding of our sport. His arrival at the helm of the team has infused new energy into our group and we are excited that he will continue to guide our team in the years to come,” Hughes said in a statement.
Prior to becoming a coach, St. Louis had an illustrious playing career, amassing 1,033 points (391 goals, 642 assists) in 1,134 games with the Calgary Flames, Tampa Bay Lightning and New York Rangers. The 46-year-old Quebecer also had 90 points (42 goals, 48 assists) in 107 playoff games and won the Stanley Cup with the Lightning in 2004.
St-Louis will meet with members of the media by videoconference at approximately 10 a.m. this morning.
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