Bob Murray has taken over as the head coach of the Anaheim Ducks for the remainder of this season, but his aspirations to lead an NHL bench don't extend the beyond then.
Murray said he is using this opportunity to uncover the roots of the problems with his team, which currently holds a share of last place in the Pacific Division.
“I didn’t feel it was right to bring anyone in at this point in time," Murray said. "I think I had to be here, I had to go downstairs, I had to live it with these guys. I’ve got to find out everything going on down here and obviously, it’s more problematic than I thought a while ago so I figured the only way that was fair to anybody was for me to get down here.”
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When asked about the search for the team's next head coach Murray said "that’s the first thing on the list" once the season is over. He was also able to confirm that Dallas Eakins, head coach of the Ducks' AHL affiliate the San Diego Gulls, is in the running.
"He is a candidate for sure," Murray said. "He’s done a very good job in San Diego.”
Eakins has led the Gulls to a two-point hold on third the Pacific Division with a 25–15–2–3 record, with the team three points back of the San Jose Barracuda for second.
Murray said he decided not to bring Eakins up to finish the season in Anaheim in order to not disrupt the quality season the Gulls are currently having.
“There’s a good thing going on in San Diego," Murray said. "That’s one part of our organization where things are good right now and I want to leave that just the way it is. I want those young players to have Dallas there. Hopefully, they’ll have a good end of the year run.”
Murray feels similarly about bringing any players up from Gulls. He said he would consider more if he is able to improve the culture in the locker room.
'“I like the situation in San Diego a whole bunch," Murray said. "They’re playing a bunch, they’re having mostly success and they’re gaining their confidence. I think it’s good for as many as I can to get a feel of this in a positive environment, and that’s what I’m worried about the most as to bringing them here right now. I would like that group to stay as much together as possible.”