NHL Short Notes

Tony Granato To Join The Penguins Coaching Staff

Former Colorado Avalanche coach Tony Granato landed on his feet with the defending Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins. This 45 year-old who enjoyed a 13 year playing career with the New York Rangers, Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks has been either the head or assistant coach in Colorado for the past six seasons. During his tenure as a head coach Granato led the Avalanche to the 2003 Northwest Division title. In June, Granato who compiled an all time coaching record of 215-104-17-16 was fired in June. This past week he accepted a position as an assistant with the Penguins. “We are excited to have a guy who’s accomplished as much as Tony join our staff as an assistant coach,” Penguins head coach Dan Bylsma said. In addition to his 13 years as an NHL player, he’s also been a head coach and assistant coach for six years with the Avalanche, and all of that experience will make him a tremendous asset to the Penguins organization.”

Canucks Re-Sign Hansen

Wednesday the Vancouver Canucks went ahead and reassigned forward Jannik Hansen who impressed last season with 21 points in 55 games with the Canucks and one point in two games with the Manitoba Moose. This 23 year-old was chosen 287th overall in the 2004 draft.