The Vancouver Canucks shook up Alain Vigneault's coaching staff a bit Tuesday, replacing assistant coach Ryan Walter with former Anaheim Ducks assistant Newell Brown.
Walter, who played 15 years in the NHL with three teams, spent two years as an assistant coach with the Canucks. On his website, Walter said the decision to leave the Canucks was not his.
"After a great deal of consideration, the Canucks have determined that I will leave the organization after two seasons as an assistant coach," Walter said.
Brown, 48, served as an assistant with the Ducks for five years and has worked for the Columbus Blue Jackets and Chicago Blackhawks. He was also head coach of the AHL's Adirondack Red Wings for four years.
“Newell brings a tremendous amount of NHL experience and success to our team as an assistant coach, including a Stanley Cup championship,” Canucks GM Mike Gillis said. “We believe his skill set complements our coaching staff and will help further develop our players, ultimately making this team more competitive.”
The Canucks also announced the re-signing of assistant coach Rick Bowness and video coach Darryl Williams. Goalie coach Roland Melanson joined the Canucks in late June.
