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Jacques Martin returns to the @NHL. Will be an assistant coach w/@Penguins. @TVASports loses a major asset.
— Louis Jean (@LouisJean_TVA) August 9, 2013
Interesting...to say the least.
General Manager Ray Shero has been loyal to head coach Dan Bylsma, extending his contract and publicly backing him this summer even after a disappointing and underwhelming exit in the playoffs.
It's unknown what Martin's role will be, but he's known for structure, defensive mindsets and being more hardline than anyone Pittsburgh's had behind the bench since the days of Michel Therrien. Who knows. If the Pens just add Martin to yell at Kris Letang in French, it might be worth it. For the team in general, well, they could use a little defensive attention to detail and a new voice couldn't hurt, right?
This now makes three assistant coaches for the Pens, who are looking still for a goaltender coach as well, as fellow assistants Tony Granato and Todd Reirden are still expected back.
UPDATE
Jacques Martin a great assistant coach hire for #Pens; will likely take over many of Gilles Meloche's in-game scouting/coaching duties
— Mike Colligan (@MikeColligan) August 9, 2013
Martin is 7th all-time among NHL coaches in games coached (1,294) & 10th all-time in wins (613). He last coached with Mtl in 2011-12. #Pens
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) August 9, 2013