Columbus Blue Jackets hire Craig Hartsburg, Keith Acton as new assistant coaches -NHL offseason Update
Columbus Blue Jackets made some pivotal changes to their coaching staff by hiring Craig Hartsburg and Keith Acton as new assistant coaches for Todd Richards on Wednesday, June 20, 2012.
Both are reported to have signed a two-year contract with the team of which the financial terms and conditions were not disclosed officially by the National Hockey League (NHL) franchise.
Hartsburg and Acton addition on the Blue Jackets coaching staff is seen to be a welcomed step by various circles around the league as both bring on board vast playing experience in the NHL. Columbus is hoping to grab any talent they can in the coaching department
to revolutionise the struggling team and hope that these two former player will be able to get the job done.
"First I'm excited for the opportunity," Hartsburg told The Dispatch. "And I'm excited for the challenge that lies ahead for our staff. It's a different challenge than what I've been a part of in the past. I want to help Todd and the players build a culture
that has a chance to win, not just this year but for many years to come.”
"Keith is a quality person who brings a lot of experience, both as an assistant coach and player in the NHL, to our coaching staff," Columbus’ Todd Richards said. "My goal has been to surround myself with knowledgeable and experienced people who could add
a lot to our staff and I think we have done that with the group of coaches we have here."
Hartsburg is an NHL All-Star defenseman who made the team three times during his career with the Minnesota North Stars. He has a total of 570 games played under his belt with 413 points (98 goals, 315 assists).
Keith Acton on the other hand, brings with him over 15 years of playing experience in the league with teams like Montreal Canadiens, Minnesota North Stars, Edmonton Oilers, Philadelphia Flyers, Washington Capitals and New York Islaners.
In 1,023 career games played, the veteran holds a 584 point (226 goals, 358 assists) record.
Both newly hired assistant coaches are expected to start their jobs with Columbus Blue Jackets immediately.
Tags: