The Blue Jackets announced this morning that Craig Hartsburg will be joining Todd Richards behind the bench this season. This move brings a tremendous amount of additional experience to the Columbus coaching staff, as Hartsburg has spent time coaching in Minnesota, Philadelphia, Chicago, Anaheim, Ottawa, and Calgary.
Additionally, he coached the Canadian junior team to two consecutive Gold Medal wins in 2007 and 2008 (after having won a gold as an assistant in 2006), and enjoyed a ten year playing career with the Minnesota North Stars. During that time, he wore the captain “C” for seven years.
Hartsburg has over fifteen years of coaching experience between the Canadian Junior hockey leagues and the NHL. It is hard to put a value on knowledge, but it seems like Richards has made a wise choice in bringing someone on board with such depth of experience. Craig will be able to relate to the players and be a vital resource.
Hartsburg Head Coaching Stats
- In 491 NHL games: 201 wins – 208 losses – 69 ties – 13 OTLs
- In 535 Junior games: 300 wins – 179 losses – 23 ties – 33 OTLs
I said earlier this year that I wanted Columbus to bring in as much experience as possible, and while I was referring to the front office at the time, I think this is an excellent decision for the team. Richards will utilize his knowledge of the game far better than a young assistant could provide. He has experience in a handful of NHL markets and can add to the new look and new attitude that I expect to see from the team in 2012/2013.
#JoinTheRabble on the Union Blue forums to discuss the new hire!
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