On May 8, 2025 the Anaheim Ducks announced Joel Quenneville as their new head coach.

Hiring the second most winningest coach in NHL history, who possesses three Stanley Cup rings would typically be described as a brilliant move, or a “no brainer.”

This was not the case when the Ducks introduced their new leader.

The Windsor born Quenneville played 803 games in the NHL as a defenceman from 1978 through 1991, suiting up for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Colorado Rockies, New Jersey Devils, Hartford Whalers, and Washington Capitals.

After the conclusion of his playing career, Quenneville joined the NHL coaching ranks and spent 25 seasons as a bench boss. This included stints with the St. Louis Blues, Colorado Avalanche, Chicago Blackhawks, and the Florida Panthers.

The hiring of the 67-year-old by Ducks GM Pat Verbeek was met with plenty of scrutiny. The decision was described as controversial, and ill timed. Most prognosticators believed if any NHL club hired Quenneville the result would be nothing but public outcry.

Quenneville’s arrival was met with criticism due to the fact he was named in an independent investigation by former Blackhawk first rounder Kyle Beach. The investigation pertained to his handling of a sexual assault investigation in 2010 involving former Blackhawks video coach Brad Aldrich. The Hawks were crowned Stanley Cup champions under Quenneville’s guidance in 2010, 2013, and 2015. They were dubbed a dynasty during that six-year stretch.

After being named in the investigation, Quenneville resigned as head coach of the Panthers on Oct. 28, 2021. At the time of Quenneville’s departure the Cats were a perfect 7 and 0 on the season. Andrew Brunette took over coaching responsibilities on an interim basis, prior to veteran head coach Paul Maurice’s hiring in June of 2022.

While the majority of people believed Quenneville would more than likely never resurface as an NHL head coach, some lobbied for organizations to give him another chance.

While Quenneville was absent from NHL arenas he acknowledged that he took time to reflect, while listening to experts and advocates in dealing with trauma and abuse.

After the Ducks relieved former head coach Greg Cronin of his duties on April 19, 2025 they announced Quenneville’s hire.

After being eliminated in round one of the 2018 NHL post season by the San Jose Sharks, the Ducks proceeded to miss the playoffs for seven consecutive seasons.

The Ducks decided to make a significant move by bringing in the 1999-2000 Jack Adams award winner.

Whether you were pleased or disgusted by the Ducks move to employ Quenneville, it can’t be denied that the organization has made monumental strides this season.

The California based franchise finished third in the Pacific Division with a 42-34-6 Record. The Ducks were dominant on home ice at the Honda Center notching 24 wins.

The club is led by young stars Cutter Gauthier, Leo Carlsson, Beckett Sennecke, Lukas Dostal, former Pete Mason McTavish and Jackson Lacombe. The youthful core is surrounded by notable veterans Chris Kreider, Troy Terry, and John Carlson.

While Quenneville’s arrival in Anaheim could be classified as questionable, the Ducks on-ice product has been anything but. This is a team loaded with young skill accompanied by a veteran head coach. The Ducks appear destined for playoff success over the next several years.

Quenneville has resurrected his coaching career while instantly taking the Ducks back to the post season.

Regardless of varying opinions on Quenneville’s return to the NHL, the Anaheim Ducks are a much better hockey club with him behind the bench. Ducks fans are hopeful that Quenneville raises the Stanley Cup for a fourth time.

© Peterborough Examiner