The Anaheim Ducks have announced the firing of head coach Dallas Eakins, just one day after finishing the 2022-23 season in last place with the league’s worst record.
Although fans can rejoice at the thought of potentially seeing Connor Bedard suit up for the organization next season, the immediate team needs came ahead of the long-term goals. And Eakins ultimately paid the price.
“This was a very difficult decision, one that comes after careful and considerable deliberation,” said Ducks GM Pat Verbeek. “At the end of the day, I simply feel that a fresh perspective and new voice will be beneficial for the team. Dallas has handled himself with class and character through a difficult season, and we wish him the best in the future.”
The 23-47-12 Ducks finished the year with a club-record 13-straight losses. Eakins, who has been with the team since 2015, was head coach in Anaheim since June of 2019. He had previously worked with the San Diego Gulls, the Ducks’ AHL affiliate. In four seasons, Eakins went 100-147-44, and did not make the NHL postseason once.
Eakins had a lengthy professional career of own, beginning in the AHL in 1988 and bouncing between the NHL and the minors through 2004. He suited up for both the Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose over the course of his career, before ultimately retiring in Manitoba after the 2003-04 season, a year he spent as captain of the Moose.
Shortly after the announcement came, Eakins released a lengthy statement thank the Ducks organization for their time and faith in him as a coach.
The full statement follows below:
“I will be forever grateful for my eight years in the Ducks organization. From jump-starting San Diego to dealing with COVID to a full-on rebuild was an inspiring and rewarding challenge.
Every staff member and player made me a better coach, but more importantly, a better person. The enthusiasm and patience of the fans will never be forgotten. Thank you to Bob Murray and Pat Verbeek for giving me a chance. I will always be in your debt.
Thank you to Henry, Susan and Jillian Samueli for the inspiration. Your leadership makes the Ducks organization an incredible place to work. You remind us all that community and others come first. But most of all, thank you to my three wonderful ladies at home who support me like no other.
I look forward to our next great adventure! Go Ducks!”
.png)