In one of the most unexpected events to transpire in recent weeks, Montreal Canadiens general manager Marc Bergevin relieved Michel Therrien of his coaching duties on Tuesday.
As reported by numerous news sources, the belief was that Therrien’s job was safe until further notice. Many believed that the 53-year-old would be re-evaluated in a few short weeks, ideally after the team had righted the ship and started winning on a regular basis. Others were convinced that performances in the postseason would determine Therrien’s fate.
After close to five years of service, he was released, and penned a classy letter to the Habs organization as well as his successor Claude Julien:
“I’d like to first and foremost thank the Montreal Canadiens organization, and especially (owner) Geoff Molson and Marc Bergevin who gave me the opportunity to live the experience of a lifetime for the past five years. The Montreal Canadiens has always been a first-class organization, and despite everything that transpired over these last few days, how I perceive this team and its management will not change.Being a coach is the NHL is a demanding job, gratifying on many fronts yet it can rapidly become a thankless one. When a team is going through difficult times, a head coach is usually aware that his job is on the line. I understand and accept that reality.
I’d like to take this moment to thank the fans of Montreal and Quebec as well as members of the media. I salute the entire coaching staff and personnel, with whom I worked closely with over the course of the last few years, but especially the numerous players that I had the privilege of coaching and knowing.
I leave with my head held high and am extremely proud of the work we’ve done over these last five years. This edition of the team can be a championship team, and I’d like to wish my colleague Claude Julien future success.…