Montreal Canadiens Reportedly Hire Michel Therrien as Head Coach

According to TSN insider Darren Dreger, it appears the Montreal Canadiens have made a decision in regards to their vacant head coaching position—Michel Therrien will return to Montreal.

"

The Montreal Canadiens have made their coaching decision. Its believed Michel Therrien is the man. Announcement in the next 24-48 hrs.

— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) June 5, 2012"

James Mirtle also followed up with this tweet in regards to Therrien.

"

Was told Therrien the strong front-runner for Canadiens job. @DarrenDreger confirms. Word was they'd wait for end of finals to announce.

— James Mirtle (@mirtle) June 5, 2012"

Therrien most recently coached the Pittsburgh Penguins from 2005-06 to 2008-09. Therrien was replaced midseason with Dan Bylsma and the Penguins went on to win the Stanley Cup.

As mentioned above, Therrien has a history with the Habs. Therrien coached the team from the 2000-01 season to the 2002-03 campaign. His tenure featured one playoff appearance before he was ultimately fired. Overall, his time in Montreal saw him post a record of 77–77–37 while behind the bench.

The Canadiens had narrowed the search to either Therrien or Marc Crawford. The team is expected to make an official announcement in the next 24 to 48 hours.