(Calgary) The Calgary Flames have hired Brad Larsen, who will be one of head coach Ryan Huska’s assistants, the team announced Tuesday.
Larsen spent nine seasons in the Columbus Blue Jackets organization, including two as head coach, from 2021 to 2023. He posted a record of 62-86-16, being unable to lead the club to the playoffs. He was fired after the 2022-23 season.
For most of his time with the Blue Jackets, Larsen served as an assistant to John Tortorella, whom he replaced on May 9, 2021.
Larsen began his coaching career in the American League with the Springfield Falcons, earning a promotion after leading the Blue Jackets’ affiliate to the Calder Cup playoffs in back-to-back seasons.
As a player, the 46-year-old from British Columbia totaled 134 points in 294 National League games with the Colorado Avalanche and Atlanta Thrashers.
“Brad is a great addition to our coaching group, adding valuable recent experience as an NHL head coach,” Flames general manager Craig Conroy said in a statement.
“He is a strong communicator with a tremendous work ethic having worked in all situations as a coach during his career. »