The Winnipeg Jets have found their man. According to Darren Dreger of TSN, Scott Arniel is the new head coach of the Jets.
“Winnipeg conducted interviews with top candidates although Arniel was considered a frontrunner going into the process. Arniel is well respected by the players and has earned another shot at being an NHL head coach. “
Arniel takes over for Rick Bowness, who announced his retirement earlier this offseason after two campaigns with the Jets, recording a 98-57-9 record.
Winnipeg reportedly considered different candidates with Arniel quickly becoming a front-runner. He had taken over for Bowness when he stepped away from the team after his wife took ill and then missed five games in March after undergoing a medical procedure. Arniel managed to put up a 11-5-2 record as interim head coach.
Arniel previously coached the Columbus Blue Jackets for two seasons, going 45-60-18 with no playoff appearances.
The Jets made it to the postseason under Bowness, with Arniel close by, but failed to get past the Colorado Avalanche in the first round. Winnipeg also surrendered 28 goals in five games and failed to make it past the first round during Bowness’ time behind the bench.
Recommended articles:
