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Joel Quenneville is back in the NHL, taking the reins of the Anaheim Ducks. The 66-year-old veteran coach was officially named head coach on Thursday, marking his return after nearly four years away from the league.
A Second Chance in Anaheim
Quenneville replaces Greg Cronin, who was let go on April 19 after just two seasons. His appointment follows a period of personal and professional reflection since stepping down as coach of the Florida Panthers in 2021.
That resignation came in the wake of an investigation into sexual assault allegations involving former Chicago Blackhawks video coach Brad Aldrich. Quenneville, then Chicago’s head coach, was cited in the report for failing to act on those allegations.
Now reinstated by the NHL, Quenneville says he’s coming back a changed man. “I’ve taken the time to reflect and educate myself,” he shared. “I’ve spoken to Kyle Beach and expressed my deep regret.”
A Storied Legacy of Quenneville
With 969 career wins, Quenneville ranks second in NHL history behind only Scotty Bowman. His coaching resume includes stints with the St. Louis Blues, Colorado Avalanche, Chicago Blackhawks, and Florida Panthers.
He led the Blackhawks to three Stanley Cup victories (2010, 2013, 2015) and helped mold a youthful core into a dominant dynasty. Now, he’s set to do the same in Anaheim.
“I’m excited to be back,” said Quenneville. “This is the team I wanted to restart with. The Ducks have exciting young talent and strong leadership. I’m humbled and ready for the opportunity.”
Rebuilding the Ducks
The Ducks ended the 2024-25 season sixth in the Pacific Division, missing the playoffs for the seventh straight year. However, they showed signs of progress, improving by 21 points over the previous season.
Ducks General Manager Pat Verbeek sees Quenneville as the right man to guide this rebuilding team to success. “We did our due diligence,” Verbeek said. “We believe Joel is the right person to lead this next phase.”
Verbeek and Quenneville share a history, having played together for the New Jersey Devils and Hartford Whalers in the 1980s. That familiarity, paired with Quenneville’s coaching acumen, sealed the decision.
A Young Core with Promise
Anaheim boasts one of the NHL’s most promising young rosters. Standouts include forwards Leo Carlsson (20), Cutter Gauthier (21), Mason McTavish (22), and Trevor Zegras (24). The defense is led by youngsters Olen Zellweger (21), Pavel Mintyukov (21), and Jackson LaCombe (24). Goalie Lukas Dostal (24) is also part of this youthful core.
Quenneville believes this group mirrors the early Blackhawks squad he once coached. “They remind me of Chicago’s young team,” he said. “Raw talent, speed, and potential are all there.”
Learning from the Past
Quenneville’s return has sparked discussion, but both the Ducks and the league feel he’s earned a second chance. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman reinstated him on July 1, 2024, following a detailed review.
Quenneville’s approach now includes lessons learned from his past. “I want to be a better leader,” he said. “This journey has changed me. I’m committed to growth.”
Ready to Get to Work
The veteran coach’s enthusiasm is evident. His first live NHL game in years was a Ducks matchup against Tampa Bay in January. “I was impressed by Anaheim’s speed and energy,” he recalled. “They’ve got something special.”
Now officially behind the bench, Quenneville is ready to lead Anaheim into a new era. “I’ve been fortunate to coach during key phases of team growth,” he said. “This is another exciting chapter.”
With Anaheim on the rise and Quenneville eager to prove himself once more, all eyes will be on the Ducks this coming season.
