The Anaheim Ducks host the Toronto Maple Leafs tonight in the last game of the current five-game home stand. Anaheim has lost the last two games by way of the shootout and look to get back in the win column against a team they haven't seen much of in recent year.
Tonight's game figures to be an emotional one for both teams because it's the first time former Ducks coach Randy Carlyle has been in Anaheim since he was fired more than two seasons ago.
Carlyle was relieved of his duties on December 1, 2011 and was replaced by current head coach, Bruce Boudreau. Since his departure, the Ducks have been one of the NHL's best teams and remain a legitimate Stanley Cup contender.
It's hard not to look back at the "Carlyle Era" and not appreciate what he did and what he meant to the city of Anaheim and it's hockey franchise.
Carlyle led the Ducks to the playoffs in five of his six full seasons behind the bench and of course he was there for the clubs first Pacific Division and Stanley Cup titles.
the 53-year-old Toronto coach still holds the Ducks' franchise record for most wins by a coach, while compiling an impressive 273-182-6 record during his tenure in Anaheim.
He was the last coach to sit behind the bench for the "Mighty Ducks" and the first to lead the newly anointed "Ducks" into action. Carlyle was instrumental in rebuilding the club and turning them into the respected team and franchise they are today.
Tonight Carlyle returns to Anaheim for the first time since he was fired. The Ducks plan to honor the clubs seventh head coach sometime during the game. It should be an emotional moment for both Anaheim fans and Carlyle himself. I really hope the locals give Carlyle the warm welcome he deserves.
The Ducks current coach Bruce Boudreau already has a record of 100- 49-21 and is on pace to surpass Randy's records, but Bruce has yet to come close to delivering the franchise a second Stanley Cup title. Until he does that Carlyle should be and is still considered the best head coach in Ducks franchise history.
If you are going to the game tonight make sure you let him hear how much you appreciate what he did for the team.
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