A new candidate has reportedly emerged in the Vancouver Canucks` search for a head coach.
That name is Marco Sturm, currently the head coach of the AHL`s Ontario Reign, the Los Angeles Kings` affiliate.
According to Irfaan Gaffar, the Canucks have indeed spoken with Sturm.
Sportsnet`s Elliotte Friedman discussed Sturm`s potential fit on the 32 Thoughts Podcast. He highlighted Sturm`s ambition to make the jump from the AHL to the NHL and his suitability for the Vancouver coaching role.
Friedman described Sturm as a coach who “may not be on the top of any list” but is “ambitious,” “understands players,” and has “respect,” possessing a “good reputation.”
The 46-year-old Sturm has spent the last three seasons coaching the Ontario Reign, following four years as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Kings.
He also led Germany to a silver medal in men`s hockey at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics.
During his playing career, Sturm appeared in 938 NHL games, scoring 438 points across stints with the San Jose Sharks, Boston Bruins, Kings, Canucks (a brief six-game period), Washington Capitals, and Florida Panthers.
Friedman also mentioned that Sturm could potentially be a candidate for the Boston Bruins` coaching vacancy.
The head coaching position for the Canucks became available last month after Rick Tocchet reportedly decided not to return.
