Vancouver, BC, Canada

The Vancouver Canucks have formally announced the hiring of John Tortorella as their new coach, believing that "he has all of the qualities to bring our team success".

"John has coached championship teams and is passionate about winning. He has a proven ability to bring the best out of his players and we believe he has all of the qualities to bring our team success," general manager Mike Gillis said in a statement.

In 13 seasons as coach, Tortorella has a record of 410-340-67, with 37 ties. He's led his team into the playoffs six times, including a Stanley Cup championship with the Lightning in 2004.

"This is an adventure and it's an honor and a privilege," Tortorella told the Canucks official website. "And I couldn't be happier as far as where I'm at this stage of my career and to have an opportunity to do this in the province of British Columbia."

It'll be a tremendous challenge, but I couldn't be happier," added Tortorella, who was fired by the Rangers shortly after New York lost in five games to the Boston Bruins in the second round of the playoffs.

Tortorella replaced Alain Vigneault, who was let go after seven seasons shortly after the Canucks were swept in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs by the San Jose Sharks.

Vigneault quickly got out of the unemployment line when he was hired last week as Tortorella's replacement as coach of the New York Rangers.

 

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Canucks Hire John Tortorella as New Coach