Rangers Should Add Another Veteran Assistant Coach In Hartford
Head Coach Keith McCambridge completed his first season as head coach of Hartford Wolf Pack last season, alongside assistant coach Joe Mormina who completed his first full season as an assistant coach in the professional ranks. The duo helped shape the new look Pack and establish a record of 34-33-6-3 for 77 points, propelling Hartford to sixth in the Atlantic Division. Given the way the season unfolded, both guys gave it their best shot with the roster they had. The Wolf Pack front office, led by Chris Drury and Pat Boller, also tried to hold the ship down when the team entered in rough territory.
Looking at the bench currently, adding another assistant coach would be ideal for a young Hartford club. Adding an experienced guy with specialties in areas such as defense, power play, or penalty kill could help improve the roster. In addition, it would give Keith McCambridge more help on the bench when he needs it. Joe Mormina could also benefit from the addition of an assistant coach considering he is still learning the game from the coaching perspective. The possibility of having three bodies behind the bench could help reinforce and guide players throughout the season. In addition, there could be more one on one practices going on with another coach to help out. I know that Keith loves one on one mentoring.
Around the American Hockey League, the number of assistant coaches varies by team, ranging from one assistant coach to three. The range also depends on the affiliate and situation for each team. Hartford is on the low side for assistant coaches. They used to have two, Pat Boller, who is currently Hartford’s assistant GM, and Jeff Beukeboom. Having the additional hands is beneficial. Chris Drury should invest time in searching for another assistant coach. I feel that Keith McCambridge would appreciate another guy to help out on the bench.
Chris Drury actually added another person to the hockey staff in Hartford when he brought in goalie coach Eric Raymond. He will not be on the bench, but he will definitely help out during practices and pay attention to games from above. Having him watch the goalies full time will definitely help each goalie in Hartford to grow and improve their games.
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